P
December |
|
Axel
Rudi Pell - Tales of The Crown 10 Tracks
of Majestic Hard Rock from one of Germany's finest outfits that’s
especially for those of you who like big sounding instruments and
powerful, prominent vocal deliveries Johnny Gioeli. It's dark but
also uplifting - think Rainbow and Dio for good examples of what to
expect. This is Axel's 17th release to date in the last 19 years and
well worth getting into your cd player.
9/10 |
|
Randy Piper’s
Animal – Virus
(Locomotive Records – 2008) This is very much like a WASP album with firing hooks and even the vocalist Rich Lewis sounds like Blackie Lawless. Randy Piper was the lead guitarist in the above mentioned band for a while and this be the 2nd album from his band Animal. There’s 9 original numbers on here with highlights including rockers like ‘Can’t Stop’; the ballad ‘Don’t Wanna Die’; the heavyweighting ‘Judgement Day’ and the heartwrenching ‘Cardiac Arrest'. Oh and there’s also a cover of ‘Zombie’ by The Cranberries that’s been metallised up to a load – if only the original sounded as good as this. This is one of the best albums that I have reviewed this year by far and one for lovers of WASP and beyond! I just knew this would be a damn fine album as soon as I took it out the envelope. To be played loud !! 10/10 By Glenn Milligan |
August |
| Stephen
Pearcy - Under My Skin Well this
is a pleasant surprise receiving the Rattman's latest release as I
remember him telling us about this after the gig at Corporation, Sheffield
a couple of months since. 10/10 |
|
POMBAGIRA - The
Crooked Path
(Black Axis Records - 2008) What? Two discs for five songs? I remember Alice In Chains’ Jar of Flies EP - another double cd consisting of only an ep’s worth of tunes. Whatever this trio are up to here certainly is nothing similar or frankly great however. Stretching five slabs of death metal dirge that could have easily been done in 4-5 minutes a time to fit spaces of 10-20, this is a serious case of quantity before quality. While the temptation to verge on the epic shouldn’t always resisted, these guys have got a bit heavy handed with it. The likely appeal that ‘T.C.P’ should still hold for those more die-hard of scene fans as well as some occasional half-decent Cavalera-esque vocal turns keep it a couple of points higher than it would have otherwise earned but I personally would struggle to endure this one a second time 5/10 By Dave Attrill |
| POWER
QUEST - Master Of Illusion A band always welcomed on our pages- and in the world of true classic
metal itself - Powerquest arrive with another delivery of their sought
after melodic metal cargo. 10/10 RECOMMENDED IF YOU LIKE Visit www.napalmrecords.com for more info. * PAN RAM were a
German-based melodic prog metal act, with a sound like Dream Theater,
Queensryche, Dio and Helloween combined. They toured supporting Deep
Purple in Europe and the UK in 1996. Though since disbanded, their page
can still be found on MySpace. |
April |
|
Poppy & The Usual
Suspects – Celestial Love Jones
(PopnMad records – 2006) These guys were a great blues-rock band with tons of originality and charisma from Phoenix, Arizona, I say that because they have sadly since then broke up – dammit! There’s some crackin riffs, melodies and guitar-work on here with standouts being the big f*ck you that is ‘Mr. Boss Man’; the brilliant blues wailing found on the title track ‘Celestial Love Jones’; the positively danceable ‘Be My Girl’; and the possibly autobiographical ‘Trouble’. A CD that’s well worth checking out. 10/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
| January
2008 |
|
PARADOX - Electrify
(AFM - 2007) Another long-running European act brought back to notice by Metal’s no1 underground label, German act Paradox at least make an attempt to sound anything but that. Billed back in their eighties days as the new Metallica, you know why, straight away, if you’ve never heard these chaps before, both on the vocal and instrumental front of things. Genetically mutate them with Judas Priest’s prime-time produce and the result matches - frontman Charly Steinhauer manages to juggle both Halford and Hetfield ranges together, rhythm guitar also putting in a decent potential duel with the latter. A refreshing change from the usual Teutonic offerings within the scene, Paradox do seem strained within their consistency muscles more than a smidgen but overall it is pretty fist to the sky material, indicating Mr. Exley’s attempts to send me a poor disc have failed once more. 7.5/10 By
Dave Attrill |
PRESIDENT
EVIL - Hell In A Box President Evil’s debut offering, the gloriously titled ‘Trash n’ Roll *sshole Show’ was one of the very first CDs I reviewed for Mike Exley’s AFM label and signified quite a departure for their associated roster. While there was something lacking in spaces on ‘Trash n ‘roll’, the Bremen quintet’s rackety brand of Sick of it All – a like punk metal was quite good fun at the same time, after a second spin. ‘H.I.A.B.’ picks up quite literally where we left off in 06 but polishes off more than just a few specks and resultantly we find a slightly more commercialised edge this time round. While they like it fast, they now enjoy things a little less down on the tempo too and show more of a preference for pogo-oriented twin chord vs drum stomp –lines that enable these numbers to be separated by more than a title, a little easier than before. Fans earned by their existing sound needn’t fret, as everything else these guys delivered from last time is there and ready for the rumble. Here simply is ‘Trash n’ Rolls’ younger but little more mature brother. Safe to turn up loud and see your paint strip without touching. 8/10 By Dave Attrill |
| December
|
|
Axel Rudi Pell –
Diamonds Unlocked
(SPV – 2007) A full on covers album with a variety of different artists overall that include the likes of U2 (Beautiful Day), Free (Heartbreaker), Phil Collins (In the Air Tonight) and The Mission (Like A Child Again) that are all done in full on Rock style. Axel has most definitely put his mark on them and pulled them off amazingly – especially that incredible version of Kiss’s ‘Love Gun’ that has been given the acoustic treatment as well as the tempo being slowed down – in fact you don’t recognise it in its first few seconds until it kicks in properly. The version of The Who’s ‘Won’t Get Fooled Again’ is actually better than the original, especially in the vocals dept, thanks to the supreme larynx talents of Johnny Gioeli. So what is featured on the album – simply buy it and find out – I tell you one sure thing though – you are going to be very impressed. 10/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
|
Psychic TV - PTV3
~ Hell Is Invincible…Heaven Is Here
(Cargo Records – 2007) This is like experimental Hawkwind after a comedown from a trip of f*ck*d up, bad acid – nothing like I’ve ever heard before. Disturbing songs await the ear – be warned as these sounds are not for the faint hearted or the unsound of minds. How weird can you get – take the paranoic, schizophrenic craziness of ‘In Thee Body’; the sinister but beautiful ‘New York Story’ that could have been lifted from a Velvet Underground album and has a reminiscence of ‘Venus In Furs’ to it; the ambient starting‘Hookah Chalice’ with its waves and police sirens in the background that turns into a new wave punk number a la MC5 or something of that nature. The closing number ‘Milk Baba’ is a folky affair with ambience, sitar and guitar with a vocal basically humming this counter melody – different. Odd stuff but very likeable – don’t blame me if you end up with psychiatric mental problems after repeated plays though. 9/10 By Glenn Milligan |
August |
| Hanna Pakarinen –
Lovers
(Sony/BMG-Finland – 2007) Here’s a very talented lady that I took an interest in – she was the Finnish entry for the Eurovision Song Contest 2007, so I had to hear more than the ‘Leave Me Alone’ number and I wasn’t disappointed. It’s rather versatile and the music varies from Pop to Hard Metal Orchestral Industrial sounds like ‘Leave Me Alone’. Hanna is kinda like Pink crossed with Gwen Stefani with more balls (in the performance sense – lol) with ‘Go Go’ being a good example. Other highlights include the Aerosmith like ballad ‘Tell me what to do’; the great melodic hookiness of ‘It Ain’t Gonna Happen’ that is totally USA Radio Friendly; the crunchy, pacey last track ‘Lovers’ and the countrified ballad ‘Hard Luck Woman’. A Happy ‘n’ Sad Album that’s full of realism. 8/10 By Glenn Milligan |
| June |
| POTENTIAL
THREAT - 2.0 EP Once upon a time, the words Thrash and San Francisco were almost dictionary definitions of each other. After the Bay Area boom, the mid-late nineties became quite a more sporadic period for the scene with only Machine Head and Skinlab emerging to much notice. Onto 2007 and while many of the eighties institutions have hit the road again to show how it’s done, at least three bright young pupils have left school at the end of the day. Potential Threat may have possibly swotted up a little harder than they need do or they wouldn’t have turned the clocks as they turned on the style like this. Under no circumstances let being a three piece put you off these guys, they deliver classic Californian speed aggression as if the grunge and nu-metal scene had been wiped from earth’s memory permanently. If you appreciate the high speed and still relatively melodic guitar attacks of Testament, Exodus and Forbidden at their prime, you’ve got quite a treat on your hands with these four tunes. Threatening stuff indeed and brimming with potential, let’s hope there’s more on the way - like an album. You’re
getting a darn sight more than 2.0 for this one boys. 9/10 By
Dave Attrill |
|
THE POODLES - Metal
Will Stand Tall
(AFM Records - 2006) In the early days of Metalliville, when I was reviewing quite a lot of releases and gigs associated with the European melodic rock scene and labels like Z Records in particular, Swedish guitar fave Pontus Norgren’s name popped up on more than three or four occasions. The ex-Great-King Rat/Talisman shredder was last heard of about five years ago with his guest appearance on Jeff Scott Soto’s slot at the Gods ’02 fest in Bradford but since then, seemingly not a whisker. Until now when he shows up in this dodgily named vehicle with former Jekyll and Hyde frontman Jakob Samuel, another prolific name on his country’s scene for quite some time, playing some thankfully very un-dodgy rock music. If current day Nordic titans like Damned Nation, Seven Wishes and Snakes In Paradise are to your taste this might be your ticket but with a vague slither of punk/glitter glam attitude though not enough to justify a moniker like theirs. Samuel still has a strong range today and it is good to hear his titanium tones running alongside Norgren’s powerhouse melodies which together roll these numbers out almost naturally. They have not, however, done all the songwriting themselves as I begin to get the drift through the swings in style during the album and the sleeve notes mention contributions from Holly Knight who has credits on Kiss and Aerosmith hits in the past but that matters not one iota. These twelve numbers are all belters and I hope they can tack some UK dates onto the end of the European trek they are doing this year. They only lose half a point for their tag and their choice of title - ‘Metal Will Stand Tall’ will work wonders on the front of a Manowar sleeve, lads but not on this one - and nothing for the music. Nice one, Pont’, me old mate, just please don’t vanish for another five years again,they don’t make ‘em like this often enough. 9.5/10 By Dave Attrill |
| 2006 |
|
Axel Rudi Pell –
Mystica
(SPV – 2006) Latest offering from Axel Rudi Pell and his band that has ex-Harline member Johnny Gioeli on vocals, Mike Terrana on drums, Ferdy Dorernberg on Keyboards and Volker Krawczak. Melodic Hard Rock is to be found here that’s extremely recommendable with many a highlight including ‘Valley of Sin’; ‘Mystica’; ‘Losing The Game’; ‘Rock the Nation’ and the classically based ‘Haunted Castle Serenade’. It’s all good. 8.5/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
|
JIM PETERIK - Above
The Storm
(Frontiers - 2006) Ever in demand of further great produce –at least by Frontiers anyway - ex-Survivor legend Jim Peterik seems to have something out every year with his name plastered on the sleeve in all its glory. Either it must have been his appearance with Two Fires at the Gods 2000 fest or his phenomenal debut Pride Of Lions CD which did the trick. Whichever way you look at it, J.P is royalty in the AOR kingdom so we should expect that of him at all times. Well, we get it in most areas in this new solo effort from our bespectacled friend, with his vocals in particularly powerful fix for a 58-year old and the instrumentation is as unworthy of complaint as always, but as for the songs….. Er, yes there are a few, just a few mind you, that I have to admit are frankly average. (James, that will not do) and slow the pace towards the end even though the style you’d expect from the guy stays in the game. The tunes worth topping the vol’ for however are ‘Live Life’, ‘Burning With A Reason’, ‘Above The Storm’, ‘Stand And Be Counted’, ‘This Time Of Night’ and ‘Secrets Of A Woman’ but unfortunately almost everything on the latter half of the disc fails to excite on a drastic scale though it all remains listenable. Fun for way more than fifty percent of its running time, Peterik’s latest outing is just a little brother to the ‘Pride Of Lions’ stuff but those who can’t get enough of this guy can treat this as compulsory. 7.5/10 By
Dave Attrill |
|
POD – Testify
We seem to have been without another great rap-metal machine to shout about, from on the mountains, for quite some time now. But just as you thought all had gone flat since Limp Bizkit,….. POD seem to have been fuelled by some lethal initiatives indeed because this is one of the genres strongest examples since the days of Rage-Against-The-you-know-who’s legendary debut. Throwing in allsorts with the guitars - metal, funk, hard rock, blues, reggae - you rarely get two songs that are significantly alike back to back here with only the vocals to link, and as a bonus a couple of songs diverge and wade into Pearl Jam/Alice In Chains territory. People expecting/dreading another ‘heard one song, heard all twelve’ effort (there’s thirteen here actually, Dave) will be immensely surprised/disappointed – d.a.a. This is rap rock with attitude by the coachload, pulled off to sterling form and while a couple of numbers did still of course grate a bit, this outfit make a very big mark on the map. One that will leave names like Lost Prophets and Dog Eat Dog just barely discernible. 9/10 By Dave Attrill |
May |
PARADISE
LOST – Paradise Lost
(Zomba Music - 2005) The sound of this album is reassuringly similar to their previous album ‘Symbol of Life’ with the vocals from Nick Holmes being instantly recognisable to fans. For those of you unfamiliar with this band I would best describe them as alternative doom-metal. The dark and moody sound is well balanced with emotion and the album opens with ‘Don’t Belong’ a typical alienation/isolation theme for the band but still working to great effect showing at least Greg Mackintosh hasn’t yet run out of ideas musically. The band seems to create atmosphere with ease using keyboards and string
arrangements to great effect throughout this album in tracks such as
‘Red Shift’ and ‘Over The Madness’. ‘Forever
After’ also offers so much with rousing choral voices adding to
an already well-layered melodic medley. The track shimmers with strong
guitar chords and riffs and is a real highlight. ‘Shine’
is another favourite that I thought worked particularly well incorporating
guitar waves in the chorus that majestically build, ebb and flow. This is a great release and I’m delighted that PL is still producing albums of great quality. 9/10 By Al Hoath |
Stephen
Pearcy - Rat Attack
(Mausoleum Records - 2005/Perris Records - 2006) This is exactly what you'd assume from the title of the album - a hefty splattering of newly recorded versions of Ratt classics where Stephen has got in the likes of George Lynch and Tracii Guns to take care of the Axe Bizniz for a few of the ditties. No album like this would be complete without epics of such high calibre as 'Round and Round'; 'Lay it down'; 'Back For More' and of course 'You're in Love'; Back for More' and 'Lack of Communication' and yes - they are all here - as if they wouldn't be ! Worth noting is that this 17-strong cd also houses numbers from the 1st incarnation of Ratt, back when they were called 'Mickey Ratt', these being 'Dr, Rock' and 'Drivin' On E' that features ex-Dokken man, George Lynch on lead guitar. Original Micky Ratt bassist also plays on the tunes and even engineered all album sessions as well. Let us not forget the Rat B*st*rds being ignored either (Pearcy's band) who do a tremendous job throughout. Now the European release has come out that omits the Ratt covers and makes the way for 3 new tracks ‘Red Licorice’, ‘Novocaine’ & ‘Underworld’ giving you a good reason to buy it again or alternatively pick up the US version for the Ratt tracks if you are in Europe. Get your arses to the UK soon - it's been too f*ck*n'long man !! 10/10 By Glenn Milligan |
|
PHANTOM-X – Rise
Of The Phantom
(Mausoleum Records 2005) You’ll need a double take when you realise this is a relatively
new release because this is an album that could have easily been released
twenty plus years ago. Phantom-X’s old style Power Metal holds
true to all those winning formulas used in the past … except that
maybe they should have kept the clothes, haircuts and finger jewellery
in storage. Other tracks that stood out from the rest were ‘Edge of the Earth’,
‘Blood on the Moon’ (with Robert Lowe) and the instrumental
‘Discovery’. In summary there is nothing here that will come close to putting a crack in the mould but there are some good power metal tunes, strong vocals on offer here. 5.8/10 By
Al Hoath |
|
PRAYER - Wrong
Address
(Escape) Seldom do we receive the opportunity to review Escape-signed discs here at Metalliville HQ but when we do occasionally get to it, it’s no vain wait. Prayer are a six-piece from Finland peddling the kind of pomp-oriented AOR that is outlawed in today’s criminally fashion-commanded climate though I am always ready to plug this material more than once in a while. Though pretty trademark stuff that can’t be seen of too much appeal to many people below 35 years of age (sadly), the accumulation of Mark Stanway-fuelled keyboardery and a voice that more than advisably resembles Honeymoon Suite’s Johnnie Dee, makes for a keen listen along with this silky smooth stringwork from the two lads on guitars. There are a few less than gripping moments to be encountered although hookier selections such as ‘Secrets Of The Night’, ‘Anyone With A Broken Heart’, ‘End Of Time’, ‘Who Wants To Be Free Again’ and ‘Main Attraction’ lead the stronger majority of this pack. With another sterling act, Urban Tale, recently clipped to its laurels, Finland look set to proudly place another flag on European melodic rock’s map. One disc that definitely came to the right address. Lovely stuff, boys. 9/10 By
Dave Attrill |
| PRESIDENT
EVIL - Thrash n’ Roll Asshole Show Quite likely to be advertising some brand of bolshy garage rock fodder, I end up having quite a…. well I wouldn’t say nasty… susprise. I was quite partial to a bit of Hardcore in my teens and Sick Of It All were one of my fave acts so the similarity between Johnny Holze’s voice and the aforementioned act’s Lou Koller keeps the play button on all the way through. Whatever the New Yorkers can do, the Germans can perhaps do better and Holze’s voice is noticeably gruffer P.E.’s native land also boasting a healthy H.C scene These guys do things THEIR way though, let’s not forget that, throwing garage, punk, and metal all into the mix and that they don’t restrict all their tunes to 2 minutes or less allows them to spread their ideas out to full appreciation. A few hooks do also come in the package along with some wild - and some downright dodgy – titles , most of which your typical HC act would never even think about printing on a CD sleeve but these guys things their way… didn’t I just say that. President Evil’s way is one possibly worth going. 7.5/10 By Dave Attrill RECOMMENDED IF YOU LIKE |
|
Prey – The
Hunter
(Mauseleum Record – 2005) I opened up the cd booklet and thought, ‘Hey, I know that guy ‘Patrick Johannson’ – as he’s also the drummer for Yngwie J. Malmsteen, which was a good enough reason to check out the album. I wasn’t disappointed either because this was power metal and hard melodic rock throughout with accessible singalong vocals thanks to Thomas Nystroem). Love the opening number ‘Fault Line’ – class power metal as is ‘Turn Around’. Other highlights include the stomping arena size belter ‘I Am’ that’s very Rainbow meets AOR; the in-your-face Liar’; the Purple riff-like ‘Coming Home’ with some weird and string robot sounds (nice chorus as well lads). The closing number makes the album well worth buying alone – a beautiful ballad duet with the incredibly gifted female ‘Frederica’ – an instant hit if ever I heard one. 9/10 By
Glenn Milligan |
|
PART-TIME SUPERSTAR
- Turn Around (EP)
(Unsigned - 2005) The young Sheffield trio are back again barely two seconds after I last…. er dealt with them in relation to recorded material of their own composition. Frankly, ‘Turn Around’ is little more different from their previous piece but their power pop, whilst unadvisably akin to fellow scene dealings still has its catch factor. Three of these five new numbers are good and two are…. OK, to keep it short and their live sets to come will benefit from inclusion of this material. One major problem is that in many cases, it just dissolves too much amongst the other numbers so for first time P.T.S. gig goers, identifying newer tunes by style will be less than feasible. Still pleasant stuff though. 7/10 By
Dave Attrill |
| PART TIME SUPERSTAR - S/T (4-track EP) Among the various acts who visit Sheffield’s fabled Classic Rock Bar, P.T.S are becoming one of the most talked-about at the mo’. Time for me to explore. There’s no need fro a machete to reach these guys, they are almost instantly accessible without effort, their melodic nu-breed servings fairly akin to a fair share of Wind-Up/Artenzia signings doing the rounds. Their sound not be as freaky as that noseless face on the inside of the sleeve but it is still a little difficult to file, due to the addition of a few bursts of hardcore growlings along the course. No crack in their armour, these fellows aren’t ruled out as being full time superstars sometime in the near future. Catch ‘em if you can. 8/10 By Dave Attrill |
|
MICHAEL PINELLA - Enter By The
Twelfth Gate
(SPV/Inside Out – 2004) I get a sort of sensation of the less than impressive offering from Chroma Key that I’ve just had to sit…. I mean sleep my way through, but this fellow’s talents beyond a keyboard justify the non-use of vocals and keeping the songs short do him a few more favours too. Still an acquired taste as instrumental albums are, Pinella keeps things interesting for the larger fraction of its three-quarter-hour playing time, especially so for those budding Jordan Rudessess and Andre Anderssons who may be listening to this, as some of those harmonies are likely association with certain bands I might mention. Listening carefully enough, a few books from the Jim Peterik department also seem on loan on more than one of these cuts which shows the guy’s multi-directional side and make this album a perfect lesson for rookie ivory-whackers the world around. One I’ll also perhaps spin again before too long. 7/10 By
Dave Attrill |
|
PULSE - Worlds
Apart
(MTM - 2005) Playing in Bob Catley’s backing band can be quite known to garner some notice in the British melodic hard rock scene these days. Ask guitarist Vince o’Regan whose own band Pulse’s debut album, packed with plasterin’ anthems like ‘Lady’, ‘Inspiration’ and ‘Talkin’ About Love’ probably single-handedly earned them that slot at the Gods 2002 fest - though they were minus the incredible vocal talents of the suddenly departed Simon Abbots on that day. Three years later and the classic line-up of o’Regan, Abbots and bassist Paul Barrow return with an album to match such description. Though they have come a way since that last disc, ‘Pulse’ was a winner itself as previously mentioned, but Vince has progressed with panache while keeping observant of the style that tagged their followers onto them in the beginning. Including more of o’Regan’s meaty mainstream harmonies with strong layerings of keyboards - also by Vince, Abbots’ ever-so-slightly Coverdale-like tones seem stronger and more soulful with each number, especially towards the back half of the album. Take your pick of faves with this baby but to narrow it down if at all possible, ‘Nothin’ I Can Do About It’, ‘Worlds Apart’, ‘Price Of Loving You’, ‘Lost Without You’, ‘Do It All Again’ and ‘No Turning Back’ would probably class as the top six although the other five numbers all deserve a listen. Only occasionally throughout do the odd one or two less noteworthy moments abound plus the legally dubious similarity between ‘Price Of Loving You’ and the Bonfire tune of the same title but little at all off this album’s overall credibility level. A blinding continuation and boost to their already top form, Pulse should not leave it another three years before their next album sees the light of day, as people - like fans - do tend to move on. Then again , ‘Worlds Apart’ is one, undoubtedly stopping back for. 9.5/10 By Dave Attrill RECOMMENDED IF YOU LIKE |
Dec.
2004 |
Axel
Rudi Pell - The Ballads III
(SPV - 2004) As the title states, this is a bunch of ballads from Mr. Pell that all feature Hardline's 'Johnny Gioli' on vocals. Beautiful soaring orchestral like numbers throughout that include 'All the rest of my life'; 'Forever Angel (New Acoustic Version)'; 'Heartbreaker' and many more including a cover of Rainbow's 'The Temple of the King' German Hard Rock meets British and American Hard Rock. 8/10 By Glenn Milligan |
October |
The
Plastix - No Class Youth
(TB Records - 2002) Crazy, punky rockers who have a good old glint of glam to their sound. They've become something of a residence in Sheffield of late - at the Classic Rock Bar to be exact. It's aggressive, good sound which is what is needed at times to spark up the party a wee bit. Bawly, bounding songs await with Dogs B*ll*ck highlights including the title track 'No Class Youth; the humourous 'Joke'; 'World U Made' and the rather witty 'Uncle Sam'. Stu, Gee and Justin prove that you can afford not to take yourselves and your songs too seriously because this playing is second to none and to witness them live is the very proof of the pudding (Nottinghamshire Pudding in this case). 8/10 By Glenn Milligan |
September |
PAIL
- Blue Man On The Sun
(Moderate Roger Records - 2004) There was actually another band called Pail many years ago - they appeared on the ITV Chart Show with a vid shot inside a public loo (yeah, lovely) and also, quite coincidentally, they were s**t. This lot aren't exactly the most incredible act I've come across in my time but they serve up better helpings than the sub-Madness offerings their aforementioned and thankfully defunct aforementioned namesakes managed. Absolutely contemporary in orientation, this lot fuse together rap, industrial, thrash and alternative into a demented concoction and the whole thing is a pretty approachable platter, especially for those who like metal acts fronted by people who sound a few tents short of a campsite stopping short of blowing their gasket. An impressive set of sanity-bereft rock n' roll toons, this CD might not have its own release over here at the mo but mailing their label (see below) for info and possibility of hearing samples, if they're that generous, should hopefully point you in the right direction. 7/10 By Dave Attrill RECOMMENDED IF YOU LIKE |
June/July |
POWERQUEST
- Neverworld Having already read through more than my fair share of stonking reviews concerning this release from one of N&T's hottest properties of late, my quite highly-rigged expectations peaked as a copy of this rumoured masterpiece from the multi-national power metal quintet landed in my palms. Finally I accurately but very quickly deciphered the reason behind all the fuss as my anticipations were answered though it took until the third track on the first listen to completely absorb myself into what 'Neverworld' is all about. Here ladies and gentlemen is everything everyone needs to know about melodic metal in one easy hour-long lesson. Huge slabs of guitar and vocal craftsmanship on the respective quarters of messrs Garavello and Martognelli dominate not one less than all nine of these pristine quality tracks. Keeping modes varied they try everything from symphonic metal octane to sunshine-laden AOR and all in between, and perhaps any combinations of the aforementioned. Smooth-as-cream keyboarding from Steve Williams too, to keep it in touch with the preferences of the perfection-demanding following. An unbelieveable trip, some may say already taken or attempted by other acts of alike type, Powerquest stuff most efforts others, even those leading the league, over the last two years have made, good and proper. Even Last Tribe's '02 blinder 'Witchdance' struggles to fight this one off. 10/10 By Dave Attrill |
April/May |
| Axel
Rudi Pell - Kings and Queens The 10th release
from the German riff miester, Axel Rudi Pell who has Hardline's Johnny
Gioeli to front his band - one of Rocks best vocalists around in the
world today. Compacted with compelling solos, Blackmore like melodies
(but not all the time) with the line-up completed by drummer Mike
Terrana; bassist Krawczak and keyboardist Ferdy Doernbery. 10/10 |
| PINK
CREAM 69 - Thunderdome
(SPV/Inside Out - 2004) Formed about 2 years after Bonfire, Pink Cream 69 have always walked in the shadow of their German rivals in the melodic hard rock march. Through the years though, they have continuously grown tightrer as a live and recoding act. Current frontman David Readman has now been with the band for a decade, original screamer Andi Deris having since then fronted metal legends Helloween. Guitarist Alfred Kofler, the only German member still left in the group has done especially well to get this album together given he now suffers from Focal Dystonia, a physical disability to the hand. No songwriting disabilities in the suffering here though as the foursome, completed by drummer Kosta Zafiriou and bassist and now also producer - Dennis Ward, deliver another monster. The trudgy title track might not get things off to the most promising of starts but there's always top rate rockers like 'Gods Come Together', 'Here I Am', 'That Was Yesterday', 'Shelter', 'As Deep AS I Am', 'Anopther Wrong Makes Right', 'See Your FAce' and a belting cover of The Knacks 'My Sharona' to whip that wallet out for. Dynamic work by Readman and particularly by Koffler, considering his problems, make this a further reason as to why we should hear more, than we do, from PC69, preferably on stages, on British shores too. Another sweet cream to stick on the pudding. 8.5/10 By Dave Attrill RECOMMENDED IF YOU LIKE |
| Primal
Fear - Devil's Ground Classically
Priestified Manowar Metal from Germany that's brilliant in every way
possible. Vocally it's phenomenal and full of mid and high notes with
musical side being pristine and lock-tight. 10/10 |
| Probot
- S/T
(Roswell / Southern Lord- 2004) I can't believe that I am
about to write this! I'll bet you don't believe me. You're saying to yourself "How could the drummer for Nirvana, the group that single-handedly pushed Metal off of commercial radio and back into the underground in the early 1990s possibly accomplish such a coup de tat? How could the front man of alt radio darlings Foo Fighters release a REAL metal album? Surely this is another trendy marketing gimmick crafted to trick metalheads out of their hard earned dollars (or Euros). No way is Dave Grohl metal, let alone TRUE metal!" WRONG. How is this for credibility? Eleven of Metal's all-time greatest vocalists. Cronos. Snake. Lemmy. Wino. Max. King Diamond. Lee Dorrian. Tom G. Warrior. Eric Wagner. Mike Dean. Kurt Brecht. Eleven killer vocalists singing their own words to hard hitting, well written tracks (penned by Grohl) that equal and in some cases surpass the vocalists actual groups! Awesome packaging with art by Michael Langevin (Voivod's AWAY)! Each individual vocalist's lyrics included in their entirety. To top it off, Grohl released this project on a small Indy doom label, California's Southern Lord Records. Need more proof? The record kicks off with "Centuries of Sin". Cronos has never sounded so good and his band Venom never enjoyed this type of quality production. Grohl proves from this first track that he IS a great heavy metal drummer, infusing the track with powerful beats and precision rolls and fills. "Red War" provides the evidence as to why Max Caverlera should stop jerking around with Soulfly and reunite with Sepultura. This track features some of the best vocals Caverlera has done in ages. The first single and video, "Shake Your Blood" showcases Lemmy. Close your eyes. Can you tell this isn't Motorhead? (Kudos to the guys for featuring the Suicide Girls in the vid clip. Metal dudes really dig that kind of quality entertainment). C.O.C. was once the leaders of the metal/punk crossover charge and if their early efforts sounded as great as "Access Babylon", Dean would probably still be the lead singer. This tune sounds as if it were lifted straight from Animosity. Lee Dorrian has been one of the most overlooked vocalists in Metal for quite some time. His work with Cathedral has been innovative, original and inspiring. You can find one of his most solid efforts right here in "Ice Cold Man". Wino of the legendary St Vitus delivers a command performance on "The Emerald Law", a song which includes some of the record's most well penned lyrics. For me it was a complete surprise that this track would be one of Probot's best. Tom G. Warrior was worshipped by vast legions of metal maniacs during his early Celtic Frost days. This track sounds nothing like Warriors former work which was somewhat of a letdown. However, herein lays the secret of Probot. THIS TRACK SOUNDS LIKE ULTRA HEAVY NIRVANA! And Warrior and Grohl pull it off fantastically, the both of them proving that you can be a diverse musician and still do those diverse styles well. "Big Sky" is the greatest surprise of the album. If only Warrior could get something as cool as this going for himself today. OK, between the artwork and "Dictatosaurus", I simply cannot tell that this is not some rare, unearthed Voivod track circa Nothingface. Snake sounds the best he ever has here. I always enjoy his thoughtful and imaginative lyrical stylings and the delivery is top notch. No offense to Jason Newsted, but Grohl writes a better Voivod song, hands down. Far from the timid "We Carry On" from that band's newest effort, this is the real metal deal. "My Tortured Soul" featuring Eric Wagner of legendary doomsters Trouble takes a page from that amazing ensemble's self titled release. A compelling and captivating effort from start to finish, this is my personal favorite track, as I have been a long time Trouble fan. The record finishes off with none other than the mighty King Diamond, pipes in superior form on the track "Sweet Dreams", which is much more akin to the King's Merciful Fate material than his solo efforts. Any fan of Kim Peterson's work would list this as amongst his best. There is a hidden track, but I won't spoil it for you here… I have a newfound sense of respect for Dave Grohl. His choice of talent to deliver this excellent package is fantastic. His drumming and guitar work shows that his love for metal is true and his performance is unbelievable. This record is a must own for any long time fan of metal and a fantastic primer for new devotees. Many of these vocalist's original bands never had an opportunity to get such great production quality, and it is a shame that most of these bands are not enjoying such quality of production today. It is undeniable that Probot is a key moment in Metal history. In an age where too many vocalists suffer from the dreaded Cookie Monster syndrome and Headbanger's Ball thinks Screamo is real metal, this effort is a call to arms for metalheads everywhere to unite so that REAL metal may regain its former standing as King of the world of music. By Star (from Detroit) |
| March |
| Playground
- S/T
(Midnight Music - 1996) Debut from prototype band who have elements of Faith No More meets Galactic Cowboys who have devoured a healthy diet of Black Sabbath. Featuring Blue Cheer guitarist Andrew 'Duck' McDonald and Bob Hoffman on vocals (a mate of mine in Orlando, Fl.). This album is sweet and full of songs in harsh minor keys with meaningful lyrical qualities such as 'Open your mind'; the strong 'Watch me bleed' with its firing guitar squealing; the classical instrumental 'Summer Place' and the epic 'Prejudice' that's kinda 'Alice In Chains' meets 'Type O Negative'. 8/10 By Glenn Milligan |
| Playground
- And the gods, they play
(DMZ Productions/Midnight Music - 1998) More aggressive than the debut and far more attitude at times as well with 'Reward' being an excellent example. They came on a bit with '…the gods….' And best cuts are 'Animal' - not it's not the song by WASP or Def Leppard but more of a Sabbathy ballad with Yes-like vocal harmonies. Some of the material sees Bob Hoffman straining in the vocal department which kills some of the melodies like in 'LIAR' and 'Dead are the weak'. There's a nice bit of acoustic guitar work from Andrew 'Duck' McDonald on 'Midnight' though. This is an average album and agree with Andrew that the debut has the edge on it. 6/10 By Glenn Milligan |
| Pretty
Boy Floyd - Tonight belongs to the young
(Perris Records - 2004) Now this album should have seen the light of day years ago but the evils of all the majors sucking up to grunge soured that one completely - I think 'Workin' for the MCA' - well that's the big bossmen for you. Fortunately Steve Summers and the boys saw that they were sitting on a glam goldmine - especially since Pretty Boy Floyd have become so popular over here in the UK. Now the demos for that aborted second album finally see the light of day - it's one of the best glam albums that I've heard in years - if not the best - it easily matches the Leather Boyz debut and dare I say it, betters it. It has it all - the feel-good vibe, a full-on party atmosphere and most importantly the songs are electric. The title track itself is a salute to feeling young and 'Hands off my radio' is an epic that sates that no-one can take away our rock 'n' roll; 'Til the real things comes along' sees the 'Floyd get more serious on us and is concerned with the state of a relationship turning sour but hanging onto it until you find one that's perfect. 'Stray Bullet' is a corker of a number that mixes in elements of Skid Row's '18 & Life' with Aerosmith's 'Dream On' and 'Heaven must be missing an angel' is a soulful rockin' hit if ever I heard one. This album cannot be bettered. 10/10 By Glenn Milligan |
| PYREXIA
- Cruelty Beyond Submission
(Rex Records - 2004) Walking the trail of preposterously named metal acts once again, our latest call is at Pyrexia. Little do these long-running New York deathsters know that over here, Pyrex are our top make of cookware crockery. What roasts in this lot's ovens, as I discover here for the very first time is actually a tasty serving of Obituary-meets-Strife marinated metalcore with (90's) classic extreme metal chugging and shredding stringage, topped by more sharp-ended growls, a la Madball et al, provided by angel faced frontman Eric Shute (nice chest tattoo, by the way). Verse-chorus-verse
arrangements aren't exactly a speciality of these acts as we've probably
grasped over the last two decades but the lyrical slant towards political
and topical subjects generates meaning through all of these tunes -
though I would appreciate knowing why only the lyrics to the first three
numbers have been printed. A band as relentless as they are purposeful
in the meaning of their music, Pyrexia's fourth album is their first
as a known quantity to Metalliville's ears, but the first of many, hopefully.
Just be warned, don't play this while cooking the dinner - your erm…
oven dishes might sustain a few cracks. 8.5/10 By Dave Attrill |
| February |
| POVERTY'S
NO CRIME - The Chemical Chaos
(SPV/Inside Out - 2003) This latest release form German prog-metal rockers is absolutely fantastic. The 'Chemical Chaos' is a combination powerful, bombastic and melodic sounds that are creatively mixed together to produce something that really delivers. It's been two years since their last release with, One In A Million, and it seem that they've used that time wisely, fine tuning every detail of this incredible follow-up. Their impressive, stylistic sound isn't unlike other prog-metal bands but is unique enough to stand way out in the crowd. 9/10 By Steve Windle |
| Jan. 2004 |
| Praying
Mantis - The Journey Goes On
(Frontiers - 2003) A gorgeous and inventive slice of conceptual AOR from a band who feature ex-Iron Maiden guitarist, Dennis Stratton. The vocal duties are taken care of by John Sloman and current Yngwie Malmsteen frontman, Doogie White that sees him bring out his mellower side. Highlights include the bright opener 'Tonight' with John Sloman on vocals; hard edged 'Silent War'; 'The Journey goes on' with its choral poppy AOR; the bouncy poptastic AOR of 'Hold for love' with Doogie White taking the lead and the closer 'The Voice'. 8/10 By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| PURE SWEET HELL - The Voyeurs Of Utter Destruction As Beauty (www.puresweethell.com) This may be indie, and some call it a demo, but fact is, this collaboration between Nevermore drummer Van Williams and his buddy from back in New York Christ Eichhorn is a fully fleshed, highly technical, expertly crafted batch of avant-garde metal wonder tracks. Think Emperor (Ihsahn's vision for it) crossed with Nevermore, Arcturus, Dimmu, Dragonlord, even slow, circuitous US death. Van is actually the vocalist too (Jim Colson contributes as well), offering a variety of singing and speaking styles along with his battery of drum batteries. Eichhorn massages in programming and samples here and there, and his riffs are ladder-like, but the main vibe is one of relentless cold textures, sour melodies like any number of frosty Norwegian experiments. It all coalesces into a sort of harrowing drama, the classy graphics and emotional, real, yet oblique lyrics adding to the sculptured mass of the thing. 8/10 By Martin Popoff |
| Axel Rudi Pell - Knights Live (Live at Zeche Bochum, Germany, May 5th 2002) (SPV - 2003)
He's the German equivalent of Ritchie Blackmore and plays DIO likened material (think mid 70's to mid 80's Metal of the dark bombastic the - you know that Malmsteen feel). Caught live with his band that includes Johnny Gioeli (of Hardline) on vocals and virtuoso drummer Mike Terrana (who punches out a harder faster solo like in the days of old). The Germans are really into this stuff and it's a pity it hardly ever reaches the UK apart from the odd gig down London - The Pell outfit certainly blind any the current breed of today's 'here today, gone tomorrow' bandwagon crap. It's all good and the many highlights include the medley of 'Masquerade, Casbah, Drum solo' that also includes a snippet of Rainbow's 'Stargazer'. Then there's the thumpin' Dio'esque 'Warrior'; the Rainbowy 'Carousel' that includes the wondrous keyboard solo from Ferdy Doernberg and the blazin' thunderous 'Edge of the World'. Rainbow may have gone way beyond the pot of gold but Axel Rudi Pell is one that you'll take a cream strat liking to. Also on DVD. 10/10 By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| Pre-2004 |
| PERFECT
WORLD - S/T
A bit of fun you can have with these newly formed melodic rock acts on this label is spotting familiar names - most have at least one. Kelly Hansen of Hurricane fame is on the line-up with this project, also featuring current Dokken guitarist Alex De Rosso. Before you go in, be warned that this has next to zilch to do with Don and boy's sweet sounds, past or present, going for the laid back matured forty-something associated sound. (Well I'm 26, so b*ll*cks). Sweet melodies occupy every solitary minute if not second of the hour on show as do the tunes that own them. 'Here With Me', 'Just like A Pill', 'Between You And Me', 'Out of Bounds', 'You'll Be gone', 'Do You Love' and 'Overnight Sensation' (sadly not a rendition of the Firehouse belter) are my choices but most should appreciate the remaining cuts. Another old hand welcomely refusing to wither. 8/10 By Dave Attrill RECOMMENDED IF YOU LIKE: Hurricane, Journey, Alfonzetti (1st album), Mitch Malloy, Tyketto, Vaughn and Bon Jovi |
| PRIDE
OF LIONS - S/T
Jim Peterik is a man who not for one moment fails to understand what's expected and required of him in the melodic rock scene. Having kept his profile at the top over the last few years with his appearance at the Gods with Two Fires, and the 'Mecca' and 'World Stage - Live' CD's, he is undoubtedly regarded as more than just merely a survivor (tee-bleedin'-hee) of the industry. He is a true icon and Toby Hitchcock should be more honoured than most to be working alongside this legend and on such an incredible album as this. As soon as 'It's Criminal' bursts its way in through the speakers, you know of what's to come. 'Interrupted Melody' and' Prideland' are what Survivor would sound like if they were around today whilst 'Gone' and 'Sounds of Home', the album's two strongest songs are worth your wallet alone. 'Turn to Me', 'Madness of Love' and 'Last Safe place' are also amongst the most replayable. Peterik's skills on guitar and keys are par excellence as per usual (at 56, you've got no excuse, James) and his contrasting vocal interactions with Hitchcock make for an interesting listen - this other chap's got something of a voice himself. 'P.O.L' is passion, melody, power, emotion and feel, acting together as one all the way through. To Jim Peterik, he needs not one bit of coaching with this; it comes naturally all the time. Stunning. 10/10 By Dave Attrill RECOMMENDED IF YOU LIKE; |
| Psycho
Squad - 2 Track Sampler
(2003) Recently the 'Squad supported Motorhead at Sherwood Forest - their frontman/guitarist Todd being the son of Motorhead Guitarist, Phil Campbell. This two tracker features 'Dress like you' which is a sure as hell hit if promoted properly - the song is an attack at Nu-Metal bands 'Why does everybody dress like you' - yeah, it's something I'd like to know the answer to as well. 'Harold Bishop' - track number two about that guy from 'Neighbours'. It's ballsy, brash and concerns a guy who's peoples names he can't recall. Looking forward to a full length album from the 'Squad some time in the future. 8/10 By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| PRONG
- Scorpio Rising
Maintaining a staunch profile throughout their career, New York's Prong remain a fully checked and running machine to this very day. The proud inaugurators of one of the 90's top metal anthems, 'Snap Your Fingers, Snap Your Neck', Tommy Victor and troops have taken the liberty of progressing through the years since, newer styles slowly trying to lure them from the brand of Size 12 boot-meets-head hardcore thrash metal that developed their first sets of teeth to full growth, 12-15 years back. 'Scorpio Rising' summarises the distance they have walked, and the path between, latterday vibes of pop, punk, alternative and soulful feel chequered into a pattern with pummelling metal of the sort still in demand of them now as always was. Of course, there would have to be at least one song in the 'Snap Your Fingers' shape of things - we'll leave you to find it, yourself - amongst the many others meanwhile serving to present the case for Prong's claims against sameness allegations, should they be facing any. Tommy boy done good once more, and I sense more breakages to necks and fingers to follow. 8/10 By Dave Attrill |
| PRO-PAIN
- Run For Cover
Once upon a time, I was, believe it or not, into the hardcore/punk metal scene. Be it quite a bygone era for me but not totally so, my respect for these bands remains to this day. The last I'd heard from New York's Pro-Pain was 94's 'Truth Hurts' and having lost track through the intervening years and subsequent albums leaves me trying to find the way back in again. I catch up with them today (wait up, lads, I'm here) by way of a covers album which homages a selection of acts that have inspired or aided Mr Meskill and mates on their musical paths. Not the best help for someone who's trying to catch up with the last half of the band's career, but I'll have to find time fro that in a bit. Pro-Pain do actually deserve a chance at this as they show through their effort in keeping the songs true to their original form instead of butchering them into something that sounds like a blasphemous re-use of the lyrics from the older tune. Motorhead's 'Iron Fist', 'Agnostic Front's 'Your Mistake' Life Of Agony's 'Weeds', Slayer institution 'South Of Heaven' and also 'Just Sit There' from Gary Meskill's early days act Crumbsuckers get given a punishing revitalisation here and the rendition of Seps' 'Refuse/Resist' is so near identical to the Brazilian legends original that it almost doubles as a handy back-up if your copy of Cavalera and Co's 'Chaos AD' album goes walkabouts. Hardly the handy reintroduction I'd sought to Pro-Pain's ever-unrelenting brand of street metal noise, but I still caught them on a high. This compilation tells quite accurately how far they've come and how they first got to the start. 8/10 By Dave Attrill |
| PRIDE
- Signs of Purity
Tailing onto the convoy of deserving new British talent on the melodic hard rock highway, are Brighton six-piece Pride. This is actually their second album and hailing from the same town as established AOR heavyweight Steve Newman should make them at least quite familiar with the gauntlet cast before them. Pride however, take pride (Very.. Effin'..Funny!) in their work and their show-stealin' Gods '03 set warmed me up for what 'S.O.P' was about to offer. . Opening trio 'Could You Believe', 'Somewhere Someday' and 'Story Of Our Lives' are pure molten lumps of Mitch Malloy-meets-Harem Scarem coated rock with the outfits own sound still prominent nonetheless. Stridin' on further through the field, the next brace of three or four numbers gives us chance to hear on a clearer level where Pride are coming from - like where that vocal verse harmony on 'No Reasons Why', is (Queensryche's 'Walk The Thin Line', namely). 'Say You're not Lonely' is a song I've already acquainted myself with over the preceding three months, courtesy of a sampler off the Fireworks mag, and is ever the excellent song it was the first time spun. 'Learn To Fly' and 'I.O.U.' make huge live numbers, and closing ballad 'Still Raining' sees good use of the seven minutes allocated to its cause with a chorus that hits you hard and haunts you at the same time, and leaves the plot wide open for another album. Which is what I hope we get because Pride have done the British contingent a damn good amount of it. If you're a ..Malloy, ..Scarem, Bon Jovi, Bryan Adams, Danger Danger or Adrian Gale fan, then that'll make you a Pride one as well. Corking vocals and guitar work non-stop throughout the whole period for which it lasts. This country's not had it this good for a long time. 9/10 By Dave Attrill |
| Pretty
Boy Floyd - Vault II
Just when you thought that the Floyd basement was empty, Vault II compiles more gems out of the cobwebs from everyone's favourite LA Glitzers. There's a variety of songs - some which you may recognise such as the 60's hit 'It's still rock 'n' roll to me' and the recently played live 'Seven days in heaven' (a live version of it as well); an alternate take of 'Shut up' and much more such as the Christmas song 'We're a happy family' where Steve Summers states that 'Momma is a Porno Queen and Daddy likes men!!' - f*ck 'We wish you a merry christmas' and 'Silent Night' - this ditty throws them to the wall. This album will give the Floyd chance to work on an all new studio album - so until then enjoy this that has many other Glam numbers like the unheard anthem 'We've got rock 'n'roll'; the roadworthy 'Take you for a ride' complete with dodgy drum machine and the GNR meets Skid Row pace 'n' attitude of 'No respect for the law'. Put your make-up on and get yourself down the L.A. Boulevard right now. 8/10 By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| July 2003 |
| PABLO
- The Story Of Love And Hate
(Music For Nations - 2003) In Metal these days anything goes, including what Scots trio Pablo have popped up with to show us here which is another pretty hearable combination of styles. Best described as 'industro-indie' with a hint of stoner and some startlingly Beatles-moulded vocals from frontman Paul Fyfe, it is quite a deal of déjà vu to play immediately after hearing the Sludgefeast sinlge, but up the ladder a step, in the way that the synth effects are a bit more reserved on this occasion. 'Y Byron', 'You F***ed A Friend Of Mine', 'Lofepramine' and 'On The Roll' are amongst the more prominent numbers here, and the title track gives away any secrets that at least one of the members is a Black Sabbath fan of some degree. Despite being about the oddest choice of material to be released on a label that houses Magnum and Tyketto discs amongst its catalogue, Pablo have read the do's and don'ts page of the guide book a little more carefully and the result is quite satisfying to them and listener alike. With live work over the last couple of years including a European tour supporting Tool and a recent London slot with currently acclaimed retro-rock upstarts The Darkness, plus a commendation in national rag The Independent to their credit, Pablo should just about be getting the all clear to give up their day jobs at this stage 7/10 By Dave Attrill |
| Passenger
- S/T
(Century Media - 2003) A band whose embryo was fertilised back in 95/96 between In-Flames vocalist Anders Friden, Gardemon Guitarist 'Niclas Engelin' and Transport Leagues Drummer, 'Patrick J Sten' alongside bassist Hakon Skoger. It's kinda Metal gone poppy - but not too poppy - I don't want to put you off, now do I? It's real hard to put your finger on who and what it sounds like but you won't wanna turn it off, that's for sure. If you wanna break fee from some head battering music then this band is the right choice I guarantee. From 'In Reverse' to 'Eyes
of my Mind' it's an articulate joy of musical fulfilment. 8/10 By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| Pretty
Boy Floyd - Leather Boyz in Electric Toyz
(Perris Records - 2003) At last, it's been released on CD along with bonus tracks. The Glamtastic 1989 album has got those essential cuts like the title track itself; 'Rock 'n' Roll (is gonna set the night on fire)'; '48 Hours (to Rock)' and the slush 'I wanna be with you' and off course the epic 'Last Kiss' which needs no introduction. Support Steve Summers and his boys when they go sleazin' it up and bang on like it's hairspray LA all over again. 8.5/10 By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| Pre-July 2003 |
| Pharoah
- After the Fire
(Cruz Del Sur Music - 2003) Quite simply Power Metal of the usual Helloween variety - need I say anymore - but not from Sweden, in fact it's from Philadelphia, USA. It's well seriously well played material with gruff vocals but just how much of this stuff can you take before it becomes wallpaper. Journey your way from 'Unum' to 'Solar Fight' and through to the end of 'Slaves' and you'll agree that it blows your mind for a while but then gets boring - there's only so much chegga dugga you can take and this goes over the top. For Lovers of Power Metal only. 6/10 by Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| Porn
(Self-Produced Demo) A nice 4-tracker from a strong
French band who sound like an Amalgamation of Mariyln Manson and NIN.
Frances answer to Industrial Goth Metal. The best tracks are 'Soft Machine/Porn
Machine' that's got a really mad electronic twist and very 'Radio Ga
Ga' and 'The Free' which is real negative but likeable in a peculiar
kinda way. 7/10 By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| Pablo
- Y-Byron
(Music-For-Nations - 2002) These guys formed in London and it's taken from their forthcoming debut, 'The Story of Love and Hate'. Those of you in Europe may have seen them supporting Tool This song is kind of sitting on the borderline between Indie and Stoner and to be honest it's completely forgettable - Why Pablo? more-like - they must have better stuff than this on the album. Their cover of Kiss' 'She' is a different kettle of fish altogether - now this should have been the single - not 'Y-Byron'. 4/10 By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| Peter
Panka's Jane - Live 2002
(SPV - 2002) German Prog-Rockers from the late 70's who sound like a classic Pink Floyd. This captures them live at The Capital, Hanover, Germany on May 13th 2002. Musically it's extremely atmospheric and is enhanced even further with the halls echo - 'All my friends is a brilliant example of this. This music works best late at night with the light off when you are in that sleepy drifting off mode because it's just so tranquil and relaxing - hence the reference to the 'Floyd. There are a lot of highlights on here such as 'Out in the Rain' that reminds me of 'With a little help from my friends' - Joe Cocker style', 'Way to flow Paradise'; the medley 'Try to find/Wind/River/Energy' and the gorgeous closer, 'Beautiful Lady'. Must be one of Europe's best kept secrets. 7.5/10 By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| THE
POSTMAN SYNDROME - TERRAFORMING
(NOW OR NEVER RECORDS - NON0020) The thing is when you receive material from unknown bands on unknown record labels is that you never know what to expect! And this is exactly what I thought with The Postman Syndrome landed on my doormat. A CD wrapped in its cover within a plastic sleeve, with no info to who they are or where they come from. To my surprise this band is full of energy with new ideas and a CD that will not get the credit it deserves. Terraforming is an array of thrash, new age metal with its melodic interludes thrown in. The Postman Syndrome reminds me a lot of Number One Son, with a hint of System of a Down, and a fading in and out of Incubus, with a glittering touch of Faith no More but at the same time they try to be original with the way they come across and with a mixture of tracks like 'Amputees make bad swimmers', 'Hedgehog's dilemma', 'Schizorabbit and the face parade' and 'Volume fact', Terraforming is an exciting eight track twelve chapter CD that will become irresistible to play and I hope you get the chance to. 8/10 By Tony Watson |
| PRONG
- 100% LIVE
(LOCOMOTIVE MUSIC - LM119) As you thought Prong had disappeared into the realms of the industrial and thrash metal archives to be only played once a year, they appear five years later with an awesome live CD recorded during there tour with the one and only Danzig. This 14 track single CD is full of the classics of Prong from 'Rude Awakening' to 'Initiation' through 'Snap Your Fingers, Snap Your Neck' to 'Prove Me Wrong' to finish off with 'Unconditional' that will have any avid Prong fan bouncing with unused energy that fills the soul full of delight and anticipation of a new studio album. Prong were and are one of the original industrial/thrash metal bands to ever emerge from the music industry, which comes out as clear and as raw as can be throughout the intense assault of their live performance. An unforgettable and at the same time appreciated reminder of the one and only PRONG. 9/10 By Tony Watson |
| PYRAMID
- Gaudi's Legacy
(Locomotive Records - 2002) Not so long ago did I review an album by another excellent Spanish outfit, which were of course, melodic rock newcomers 91 suite. Before we known it, they've dropped another one on us in the form of five lads under the collective moniker of Pyramid, who appear to know their stuff only more so, albeit preferring a bit more Dream Theater than Danger Danger to their musical flavours. I actually wonder if James LaBrie and his lawyers are visiting the area around now because Pyramid's likeliness to the US legends is dangerously OTT in places. That said, the album is still quite obviously a great one and their own input can be found in the composition corner, plus a vague similarity at times to the Tomas Bodin material - I'm reviewing this album immediately after the Flower Kings mainman's stunning solo disc, quite coincidentally. Strong likeliness to sadly defunct Z act Scuderio also go without saying in the vocals of frontman Javier Cespedes and guitarist Tony Valles is just as much a forever oiled cog in this hardworking musical machine. Add to this that it's a concept album so these lads have done their homework in researching a good progressive rock album's recommended ingredients. The disc centres round the life and works of renowned Spanish painter Antonio Gaudi, seemingly as artistic as the musicianship of this act who evidently worship him as a god. Pyramid are where it stands, a prog rock act who despite matching the main product of others before them more than is advised, also level up with the quality, if not more so. Any chance of a visit to the UK, boys? 9/10 By Dave Attrill |
| Jim
Peterik - Rock America - Smash Hits Live A live selection of songs that were recorded at the Morris Centre, St. Charles, Illinois in January 2000 which evolve around muso/lyrical ace, Jim Peterik alongside artists he's written for and with in the past few decades. Much of the material is AOR radio-friendly and virtually unknown outside the USA (bar the famous Survivor hit, 'Eye of the Tiger' and 'Rockin' into the Night'). Don't put off by that because what is on offer is exceptional and will no doubt see a large interest into artists like 38 Special, Two Fires and Night Ranger. Quite a few famous names walk the stage such as Kevin Cronin (REO Speedwagon) on the rockin' ballad Between Two Fires', the Blues God that is Buddy Guy on the astounding 'Vehicle' or Kelly Keagey of Night Ranger performing 'Sister Christie'. You can't forget the gutsy rock of 'Heavy Metal' that Jim wrote alongside 'Sammy Hagar' for the title track of the film. The sound quality is simply gorgeous and the audience is extremely appreciative throughout the event. The music has not all been taken from the live event though as 5 bonus tracks have been added that include 'The Day America cried' that's beautifully sung by the 2nd lead voice of Lynyrd Skynyrd, Johnny Van Zant about Sept. 11th. Also worth a mention is the ballad dedicated to a three year old boy called Raleigh Crouch who died of cancer entitled, '?' performed by Jim Peterik and Kevin Chalfont of The Storm - it really is touching stuff. Brilliant Music performed by the people of a Brilliant Nation - God Bless America. 8/10 By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| POLAK
- Rubbernecking
(One Little Indian - 2002) When it comes to bands of styles rarely or never stumbled across before, the opening line of a review does take some thinking……. SOD IT! Polak are…. Well I'm sort of stuck as to what they are supposed to be actually, but they're very good whatever they are, that's what matters. They issue forth some sort of laid-back indie/grunge -type substance with traces of classic British seventies/eighties punk vibes and just a smidgen of Seattle-ism showing up through the light. On occasion, there's even a few ideas that The Police wouldn't have minded owning the rights to, and the vocalist does indeed have a Sting in his tonsular regions. Although a slow slidey-sounding album at many times, there is a direct ratio with upper-tempo matter and the melodies are excellent throughout. Hence, the line between this and the typical two-chorded pop drivel - fans of which I recommend checking this out if they are capable of listening to anything decent - is swiftly drawn. 'Love lies', 'Joyrider', 'Bar Angel' and 'Come Down' are all hits in the making that deserve be and also to come from a band who could bring alternative rock into much higher repute than it has been for nearly the last decade. Many of my fellow AOR/Glam followers, of which I have a considerable amount, may resent my praise for this disc, given the scene it leans towards most, but when you judge a record FOR WHAT IT IS, it all makes sense. 9/10 By Dave Attrill |
| Poley/Pichler
- Big
(Z-Record - 2002) The same two guys (Ted Poley and Gerhard Pichler) who were in Melodica but have now jumped the label pond to Z Records. Musically it's more laid back than that of Melodica - with a production that's real strong and full. As you may have guessed it, it is lyrically romantically based and major highlights include the salute to Rock Legend Reg Dwight or 'Elton John' as the name and songtitle goes, the bangin' 'Let me out', the laid back 'Stuck On You' or 'Better of Dead' - previously heard on the Melodica album 'USAcoustica'. Oh yeah - can't forget to mention the splendid 'Don't Spread Your Lies'. It's a definite album to get your girl in the mood - for what you may ask !!! 7.5/10 By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| Pretty
Boy Floyd - The Vault
OK, so a 5-track sampler isn't much to go on - but it looks the full-length album is gonna be a glam gem from hairspray heaven. Vault is a collection of 19 unreleased demo's including some of the first ones that Pretty Boy Floyd ever recorded. If only the follow up to 'Leather Boyz with Electric Toys' had been released as many of the songs on here may have appeared on it The liner notes come from original giutarist Kristy Majors who has left the band just recently - so what treasures are in store in the music trove you may ask - well there's the demo for 'Good girl gone bad' for a start that appeared in its finished form on the e.p.'A Tale of Sex', and unheard masterpieces like 'Some kind of Voodoo' and 'Slam Dunk' plus many classics that you'll remember from the legendary debut like 'The Last Kiss', '48 hours' and 'Rock and Roll Outlaws' plus the unforgettable 'Leather Boys' itself. A milestone - can't wait to hear the full album. 8/10 By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| Playground
- D-Evilution
I found out about these guys when I was having a few drinks in the Celebrity Lounge in Orlando, Florida (a small hotel bar, located downtown, next to a Best Western Hotel. It was here that while placing a few dollars into the jukebox I got chatting to Bob Hofmann, the bands lead vocalist. Playground are similar in style to Tool but way more advances vocally. Bob has that certain something that enables him to rawp like Rob Flynn (Machine Head) or Burton C. Bell (ex-Fear Factory) but also has the vocal hight of Michael Kiste (Helloween) or Klause Mein (Scorpions) and even pocesses the gutsy warbling quality of the late Alice in Chains vocalist, Layne Stayley. Also present in the band is Andrew 'Duck' McDonald on lead guitar, formerly of Blue Cheer. It's a mighty beast of an album especially the heavily toxic rendition of Led Zeppelin's 'Heartbreaker'; the powerful 'As I Rise' and other negatively realistic cuts like 'Isn't that easy' and 'Rot and Chain' If this band manages to ink the right deal then they are dead set on making it big - they have everything that today's kids are looking for like ferocious melodics, hard-edged no-bull attitude not to mention honest lyrical affairs. Tool fans will die for a copy of this. 7/10 By
Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS |
| Pornorphans
- Beyond Good & Evil
What can I say about Pornorphans? Not a right lot really apart from boring, tame and text book. A bunch |
