Your Off Center Rock Magazine
Is Radio Dead?
Volume 1 Issue 1
November 2013
Top 10 Prog Concept Albums
Smile Empty Soul / Edge Of Paradise / Full Devil Jacket / A*Star / Mosh Pit Justice / Lullwater Fleshtorn / Sanitarium / Framing Hanley / Mongrel / Mos Generator / Ben Draiman / Bad Wolf
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Ben Draiman was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois and has been a singer/songwriter since the age of 13. His music is described as a powerful, emotional and melodic rock fused with the softness of the piano alongside the intensity of the electric guitar. Ben comes from a family of musicians, most notably his brother, David Draiman, frontman of Hard Rock band Disturbed and Device. Check out his 6 track EP at www.bendraiman.com or join him on facebook www.facebook.com/bdraimanmusic.
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Volume 1 Issue 1 November 2013 Your Off Center Rock Magazine
WELCOME TO THE DEBUT ISSUE OF LOUDNEZZ
www.loudnezz.com
Inside this issue: The News : Framing Hanley, Lullwater, David Draiman, ,Mos Generator
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Is FM Radio Dying?
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Mu Biz : Alternative Sales Outlets for Musicians
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Rob’s Top 10: Progressive Concept Albums
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Loud Review : Edge Of Paradise
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Fleshtorn
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Mosh Pit Justice
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Sanitatium
24
A*Star
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Full Devil Jacket
30
Smile Empty Soul
32
Bobaflex
34
Ayreon
36
Eye Empire
38
Reviews
41
New Releases
48
Loud Charts
49
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Editor: Jim Santora Jr. Writers: Jim Santora Jr. Rob Mallory Leroy Hickman Gary Frank Josh Mohr Dr. Kenneth Love Photography: Jim Santora, Leroy Hickman, Rob Mallory, John Payne, Jennifer Hickman Cover Photo: Angela Villand Other Contributors: LaFamos Ashton-Magnuson Media SKH Music New Ocean Media Adrenaline PR Earsplit PR Contacts: E-Mail: contact@loudnezz.com (Used for all general contact, feedback, interview requests and reviews) Advertising: jsantora@loudnezz.xom New Releases Listing rmallory@loudnezz.com Website:
Editor’s Desk -
Edge Of Paradise w/ Loudnezz’s Jim Santora and Leroy Hickman
Issue #1 - Thank You If you are reading this, then let me be the first person to say “Thank You” for picking it up or downloading it to your computer. This is a 20+ year dream of mine that has finally become a reality. To own my own magazine and have it out for whoever wants to read the numerous articles, reviews and other commentary we have provided. Basically, Loudnezz Magazine is comprised of a few guys who DJ at an internet radio station. When I pitched the idea, guys like Rob Mallory, Leroy Hickman and Josh Mohr came on board to lend a hand. With the completion of this first issue, we are looking forward to providing more to follow. Loudnezz will bring you articles on all things happening in Hard Rock and Metal, Progressive Rock and Modern Rock. We didn’t want to lump into on specific brand. So Loudnezz is your “Off Center” Rock Magazine. We hope you enjoy what you are reading and we would like to get your feedback. Please send all feedback to contact@loudnezz.com . If you liked an article or disagreed with something in the magazine, please let us know. Who knows, your comments may make it into an upcoming edition of Loudnezz. In closing, I would like to say thanks and I really hope you enjoy the magazine and what we are trying to do. We also hope we give you a different spin as well with the various bands with cover and various genres we will be working with. We also hope you spread the word and let everyone you know about Loudnezz Magazine.
www.loudnezz.com Phone: 609-270-4646
Jim Santora Editor
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The News
SEPARATIONS SIGNS TO IMAGEN RECORDS BAND TO RELEASE DEBUT ALBUM DREAM EATER IN 2014 Standing out from the pack isn't always easy. However, it's essential for some. From the beginning, Separations’ desire was to blaze their own trail. The Atlanta quintet strikes a delicate balance between energetic heaviness and melodic hypnosis on it’s full-length debut album for Imagen Records, Dream Eater out in early 2014. Separations is comprised of --Will Crafton- Vocals, Brad Wagner- Guitar/Vocals, Kevin Nordeste-drums, Seth Van Dusen- bass/vocals and Jonathan Roach- guitar/vocals. In 2013, Will, alongside high school friends and band mates Brad and Kevin, possessed a desire to step outside the box and embrace their inherently heavy tendencies. That’s when Separations came to life.
Boston’s Mongrel to release “Evolution” in early 2014
Mongrel to Release New EP in 2014 With a lead singer who draws comparisons such as “a modern day Janis Joplin meets Otep” and a unique blend of aggressive rock influences, MONGREL has been on a roll for the better part of three years. Called “the hardest working band in Boston” (Metal Edge), MONGREL has released two EPs and a full length album since 2010 and is gearing up to release their next EP Evolution in early 2014. But before that release, the band has announced the release of a new single, ‘Snakes’. You can download that single via iTunes starting this week. The band’s new album Evolution was recorded by Jim Foster (POD, Nullset), mixed by Dave Fortman (Slipknot, Otep, Mudvayne, Evanescence, Soil) and mastered by Howie Weinberg (Metallica, Pantera, Nirvana, The Cult). MONGREL has toured extensively in the US, repeatedly sharing stages with rock, metal, and punk luminaries as diverse as Godsmack, Halestorm, Korn, Gwar, The Misfits, FEAR, Sepultura, Otep, Fu Manchu, Mindless Self Indulgence, Dizzy Reed (Guns N' Roses), Vision of Disorder, Prong, God Forbid, Trashlight, Vision, Piggy D’s Evacuation Plan (Rob Zombie bassist), Warrior Soul, Hed(pe), All That Remains, Mushroomhead, American Head Charge, Shadows Fall, etc.
"Separations came from us separating from our old band and returning to our roots," admits Will. “The name was something we all agreed on instinctually, at the same time. In the literal sense, sometimes you need to separate yourself from the things that keep you grounded and are comfortable in order to succeed. That was the main message we wanted to convey." It comes through loud and clear via their distinctive sound. Merging soaring hooks, snapping guitars, and electronic murmurs, it crushes just as soon as it captivates. The band captured these dynamics in the studio working alongside producer James Paul Wisner (Underoath). This energy resonates from song to song remaining ever present on the first single and title track Dream Eater. "The concept was initially a little cryptic," explains Will "The idea is you work so hard for something just to have it taken away. There's that inner battle in the human mind like, 'Am I good enough?' Everyone has a light and dark side. The doubt manifests in the form of this creature we'll refer to as the 'Dream Eater'. The protagonist and the monster are embroiled in this battle we all go through." The group manages to tap into that same power on stage. Each show remains unpredictable, making for an unforgettable experience every time these five musicians hit the stage. "As long as we form a connection with anyone listening to the music then we're accomplishing what we set out to do," concludes Will. The time is coming to unite with Separations.
For more information, visit www.mongrelband.com
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The News
Lullwater Framing Hanley
Lullwater Announce Broad Plans for Year of Touring in 2014 Lullwater continue to log miles on the road, adding select Southeastern appearances for late-2013. In December, the band will appear in Savannah, GA on the 21st at Jinx alongside others. Since 2012, Lullwater has toured consistently playing major and secondary market concerts throughout the Southeast, Midwest and up and down the East Coast. Cumulatively, the 200 gigs has built a strong base that only gets larger with each passing month. In 2013, the band appeared at SXSW, and completed a 25-date West Coast tour, expanding their fan base to one national in scope. The band plans to commit the majority of 2014 to touring, aiming to make 200 or more appearances mixed between headlining and support plays. The band recently released their self-titled album on their own Dinobird label. Recorded and produced at London Bridge Studios, Seattle WA (Pearl Jam 10, SoundgardenLouder Than Love), the September 17th offering has seen strong sales and critical acclaim from journalists and industry tastemakers. Guitar World premiered Lullwater, while the video for the single “Albatross” was picked up for an exclusive debut by Artist Direct.
FRAMING HANLEY OFFERING FANS THREE NEW SONGS FOR FREE FRAMING HANLEY have decided to release three brand new songs FOR FREE on their website www.framinghanley.com due to the delay of their upcoming album THE SUM OF WHO WE ARE. The three songs (CROOKED SMILES, NO SAVING ME, and WALT AND THE WOLVES) are available now. FRAMING HANLEY hit the scene in 2007 with THE MOMENT (featuring LOLLIPOP, HEAR ME NOW) and their 2010 sophomore release A PROMISE TO BURN (You Stupid Girl, Back To Go Again). The Sum Of Who We Are was funded entirely by the band’s loyal fan base by donating money via a Kickstarter campaign. “First and foremost, our incredible fans are the reason it’s even possible” states Nixon. “They funded the entire thing on Kickstarter. That is still unbelievable to us. Every band says that they feel like they’re getting better with the years. So while I feel that’s a trite statement, I can’t deny it. We’ve never written as much material for an album as we did for this one. We had to cut so many songs that we felt were strong. We also recorded songs for the album that we felt weren’t ‘there’ yet only to go back to the drawing board and get it right. This record from start to finish will be all that we have in us. The ‘sum of who we are’ if you will.”
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The News Ripple Music Nominated for Independent Record Label of the Year - Ripple bands Mothership and Trucker Diablo also get nods for bands and albums of the year in the Total Bike FM Industry Awards Ripple Music, the Californiabased heavy rock label has already been recognized as one of the world's leading labels for 70s-tinged retro-heavy rock. With a roster that includes such hard-rocking stalwarts as Mothership, Trucker Diablo, Mos Generator, Grifter, Stone Axe, Devil to Pay, Ape Machine and Earthen Grave, (not to mention such 70s legends as Leaf Hound, Poobah and JPT Scare Band) Ripple has garnered accolades and appreciation by rock fans around the world, for their quality of music and love of both vinyl and CD formats. Now it's time that the industry stood and took notice of what Ripple is doing. With the announcement of their Industry Award nominations, TheBestForMusic.com made it official: Ripple Music is one of the best hard-rocking record labels out there! As part of their annual award issuing, Ripple Music was nominated along with 3 other excellent labels, for the "Best Independent Record Label." Ripple Music bands raked in the accolades also. Both Mothership and Trucker Diablo were nominated for Band of the Year (in UK and International divisions) and both of their latest Ripple releases, Mothership's self-titled debut and Trucker's Songs of Iron were nominated for "Best New Album of 2013." Trucker Diablo even got a nod for "Song of the Year" for their anthemic, hard rocking single, "Drive." You can vote for the final awards and see all the nominations atthebestformusic.com Stay tuned to Ripple Music for more chain-rattling heavy rock, as they prepare to unleash a maelstrom of heaviness in early 2014, including Leaf Hound's hotly soughtafter Live in Japan on vinyl/CD/DVD, Poobah's 1976 classic US Rock and long-anticipated new albums from Grifter and Volume IV. All Ripple Music releases are available at the Ripple Store (ripplemusic.bigcartel.com)
MOS GENERATOR Release New Song; Reveal New Album Details Northwestern U.S. stoner rock gurus MOS GENERATOR, who recently inked a deal with Listenable Records, has announced that their forthcoming album will be entitled Electric Mountain Majesty. The band's first release since joining the Listenable Records roster, Electric Mountain Majesty is scheduled for a Spring 2014 release. Plans are currently being laid for a European tour in May. To give fans a taste of what Electric Mountain Majesty has to offer, MOS GENERATOR and Listenable Records are now streaming the album's title track at https:// soundcloud.com/promo-35/mos-generator-electric/s -HBiID . MOS GENERATOR guitarist/vocalist Tony Reed comments on the new song, Tony Reeds comments the track :"ELECTRIC MOUNTAIN MAJESTY was riffed out and recorded in about 15 minutes. Shawn and I did a demo of it and when I sat down and started to work on it the next day i realized that the drum track on this demo was killer! It had all of the fire and expression that Shawn would have live. I tracked the guitars and performed the vocals over the course of the next day and here it is. Our love for heavy rock, metal, and melody all come together in this tune."
Track listing for Electric Mountain Majesty is as follows: Beyond the Whip Nothing Left but Night Enter the Fire Spectres Neon Nightmare Breaker Early Mourning Electric Mountain Majesty Black Magic Mirror (Interloping: Heavy Ritual) Heavy Ritual
Mos Generator
Electric Mountain Majesty was recorded at HeavyHead Recording Co. in Port Orchard, Wash. and was produced, mixed and mastered by T. Dallas Reed.
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The News
Royal Bliss
ROYAL BLISS SET TO RELEASE NEW ALBUM “CHASING THE SUN” FEBRUARY 18TH 2014 Salt Lake City, UT rock band Royal Bliss, will release it’s new album “Chasing The Sun” February 18th 2014. The albums first single “Cry Sister” is already climbing the Active Rock chart. Royal Bliss is comprised of lead vocalist Neal Middleton, guitarist Taylor Richards, bassist Dwayne Crawford, and drummer Jake Smith. “Chasing The Sun" is a healthy dose of timeless rock energy combined with sing-a-long pop hooks, poetic and heart-felt honest lyrics that has been missing in rock radio for quiet some time. Royal Bliss has been making their mark across the country for years now. Constant writing, recording, and touring have helped build the success of the band. The wide variety of influences from Johnny Cash to Snoop Dog to Led Zeppelin and the Toadies with everything in between have melded a sound that cannot be denied. For more information, check out the band’s website: www.royalbliss.com
Bad Wolf
Bad Wolf Release New Video The Los Angeles band, Bad Wolf have generated their own world with the fusion of steampunk and faerie-rock, which now acts as the inspiration and environment of their new video for the single, “Drowning Beautiful”. The deeply meticulous video is the second single from their debut EPOnce Upon… which includes the track “A Better World” featuring Traci Hines. With the unveiling of the band’s latest masterpiece, fans will both enjoy the sci-fi multiworld themes, as well as enjoy the chance to see the group in their most dramatic setting to date. Bad Wolf has played alongside national acts such as SemiPrecious Weapons and Panic! at the Disco’s Dallon Weeks. The faerie rockers are quickly attaining a cult-like following and upon the release of their new single, their fan base is sure to explode. “Drowning Beautiful” is now available for viewing on the group’s YouTube channel. Keep up with Bad Wolf by visiting www.WeAreBadWolf.com
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The News DAVID DRAIMAN’S BROTHER BEN COVERS DISTURBED’s “STRICKEN” Ben Draiman — younger brother of David Draiman of the famed rock group DISTURBED — has released his version of the DISTURBED song "Stricken". You can listen to it in the YouTube clip here: http://youtu.be/Lzw6qNqQknc Says Ben: "Today I pay tribute to one of the best hard rock/metal bands in the past decade. I pray I've done it the justice it deserves." Ben Draiman's debut six-song EP, "The Past is Not Far Behind", came out in October 2012. Ben Draiman was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois and has been a singer-songwriter as well as a pianist frorn the young age of 13 years old. Heavily influenced by a wide variety of styles, his music can best be described as powerful, emotional, melodic rock, fusing the softness of the piano along side the intensity and roughness of electric guitar. In a recent interview, Ben was quoted as saying: "The personal nature of my songwriting is something that, at this stage, distinguishes me from others. It all depends on the place from where the music comes from, and for me, it's still utterly pure — I have no audience in mind and no market in mind. It's a personal, therapeutic experience for me and ultimately, I think that's what people can relate to. You don't need to be the best singer or piano player, but when you give something else, when you mean every word of what you sing, that can be even more important." And indeed, his performances as well as his music's unique intensely emotional and authentic style has set him apart from many other artists and has continued to draw larger audiences over the years all across the age demographic. His single, "Soon Enough", which was released in 2011 in anticipation of his EP, garnered considerable worldwide interest, making it onto several online blogs and magazines, and was on regular rotation on 94X in British Columbia, placing number 81 of the top 84 songs of 2011 . It has also been featured several times on Rock 108 in Iowa. Ben performs as a singer/songwriter in Israel, where he currently lives. For more information, visit www.bendraiman.com
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The News SKINLESS Re-Sign To Relapse Records
DEIVOS
DEIVOS Signs With Selfmadegod Records Top-tier Polish death metal band DEIVOS has signed a deal with Selfmadegod Records for the upcoming release their fourth full-length. The band is currently hard at work writing new material to be recorded early in the new year at Zed Studio (Black River, Rootwater, Frontside), the album tentatively slated for release in mid-2014. More info on DEIVOS and the act's pending new release will be announced in the months ahead.
GOT NEWS? If you are a band, record label or pr company and have rock news. Please send your press submissions to contact@loudnezz.com
Relapse Records is extremely proud to announce the official re-signing of recently reunited New York death metal legends SKINLESS! Formed in 1992, in Albany, New York, SKINLESS have released four full-length albums and numerous EPs throughout their 20+ year career. After disbanding in 2011, the group is now back together with the classic Progression Towards Evil lineup (vocalist Sherwood Webber, guitarist Noah Carpenter, bassist Joe Keyser and drummer Bob Beaulac) plus the recent addition of Dave Matthews on second guitar. Comments vocalist Sherwood Webber: "Relapse Records! I'm sure it's rare for a band to speak so highly of their label after a thirteen-year relationship. It's an honor to have such a team to work with. Relapse's support and friendship is beyond appreciated. The Relapse experience is hard to explain, but you can notice immense camaraderie between all the bands on the roster. It's been one of the great privileges I've had in the music business to be a part of the Relapse family. Thanks guys, tell the world it's doomed!" Adds founding guitarist Noah Carpenter: "We're proud to be a part of the sadistic Relapse family once again. SKINLESS is far overdue for a new album so that will be our priority for the next year. Basically we're going to put the Progression, Foreshadowing and Trample albums into a blender, add some guitar solos and serve up the heaviest SKINLESS release yet." The group will begin writing their long awaited follow-up to 2006's Trample The Weak, Hurdle The Dead, which is expected to be released in late 2014. In the meantime, fans can catch SKINLESS at the inaugural Denver Black Sky Fest. Founded by Webber, Denver Black Sky will be held on December 14th, 2013. The three-stage event features a very special "Grind In The Round" stage and offers up a ridiculously sick lineup of: Dying Fetus, Ghoul, Exhumed, Speedwolf, Power Trip, Mammoth Grinder, Call Of The Void, Reproacher, Weekend Nachos, Iron Reagan, Axeslasher, Primitive Man, Vimana, Of Feather And Bone, Native Daughters, Black Sleep Of Kali, Dead Temple and Flight Of Sleipnir. Following their imminent devastation of Denver, SKINLESS will punish upstate New York with two already sold out shows at the Upstate Concert Hall. Additional dates to be announced in the coming weeks. SKINLESS Live Assaults: 12/14/2013 Denver Black Sky @ The Gothic Theatre - Denver, CO [tickets] 01/17/2014 Upstate Concert Hall - Clifton Park, NY w/ Section 8, Stigmata, Overcast, Wartime Manner, Facecast 01/18/2014 Upstate Concert Hall - Clifton Park, NY w/ Stigmata, Section 8, Wartime Manner, The Final Sleep, Born Low
Fans of true unadulterated death metal annihilation should prepare their ears for what is sure to be one of the most highly anticipated death metal albums in a long time!
We are always looking for up to date coverage for Loudnezz Magazine and www.loudnezz.com news feed
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Black Sabbath, both established artists that I am sure you have heard of, recently released new albums. The chosen lead singles from the albums were “Headlong Flight” (Rush), and “God Is Dead” (Black Sabbath). I heard “Headlong Flight” on our local radio station only twice, and the new Black Sabbath song got no airplay that I was ever fortunate enough to hear. So where is the medium to spread the word that one of the greats have a new album out? And why is the promotion for these albums strictly on the internet?
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Is FM Radio Dying?
By Rob “ViaMental” Mallory
.In 1979, Neil Peart wrote the lyrics for a Rush song called “The Spirit of Radio”. The song, becoming somewhat of a radio hit ironically enough, told the story of the declining power that FM radio had for the less mainstream artists. What was once an amazing medium for promotion for the less popular acts, and a place where listeners could tune in and hear their favorite songs alongside the deeper album cuts, had sadly become yet another medium ruled by the almighty dollar. Unfortunately this situation has not only seen no improvement, but it has gotten much worse as the years have gone by. Popular radio has become a sad state of affairs in this day and age. Back in the distant 90’s, when I was growing up, you would be able to turn on the radio and hear a variety of music, and on a variety of radio stations. Stations did not seem afraid to follow up a heavier song with a lighter one, and they definitely weren’t afraid to hit the request lines and play something a bit out of their usual play lists. This is no longer the case, it would seem. Now, what the FM dial gets you are a few classic rock stations, that stick to the older, more popular tunes of older bands. It’s rare that you hear any new cuts from older bands. Just to use an example, Rush and
On a different type of station, listeners also get the new music from newer acts. These are the stations that I find myself listening to the most when I have no choice but to tune in on the FM band. Bands like Avenged Sevenfold and Disturbed regularly get their new music played on the radio in my neck of the woods. But these stations will not play older bands, be it new, or old music from these bands. So once again, it seems that the established bands are only wanted for their classics. Who cares that ZZ Top had a new album out recently, when “Legs” can still be played several times every day? Besides the classic rock stations, and the one modern one (again, in my area) the FM dial is home to three top forty radio stations. Putting aside the fact that I don’t care for the music burning up the charts, even if I did I would be unable to listen to one of these stations. The reason being, the same songs are in heavy rotation, and it is not uncommon to hear the same song more than a couple of times in a two hour time span. For the life of me I don’t understand why these programmers don’t play a wider variety of songs, staying within their chosen format, of course. Maybe more acts would sell if these radio stations would give some of the acts that aren’t “the big thing” a few minutes on their airwaves. Finally, you have the independent artists, the ones without any big label backing them, and making sure everything that they record in the studio is watched over and picked apart before a fan hears a single note. The independent artists, who could use the support of big radio more than any other band, are virtually unheard of over the FM airwaves. In the Omaha area there is an hour devoted to this music every week, but to be honest, I think a lot more time needs to devoted to the bands that work so hard, and fund their own albums. The bands that are hitting the internet and using it for the tool that it really is. Promoting themselves, and marketing every note of their music on their own time, and their own dime. I’ve read several artists say that internet radio and streaming music are killing the music business, but I disagree with this. It seems to me
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that the over saturation, and the bought and sold mentality from the mainstream radio stations are what is really killing music. How can internet and social media be killing bands, when it seems to my eyes that these are the only real means of promotion for these once proudly played acts? It would seem that, for all intents and purposes, FM radio is a bust for anybody in the Omaha Nebraska area, that want to hear a little bit of variety. And here is where internet radio stations, and streaming music services really pay out for artists. It’s these stations that aren’t afraid to play a band that aren’t topping the charts. It’s these services that aren’t afraid to give people a taste of what artists are working on when not playing the same chart topping single over and over, year after year, decade after decade. And, of course, it is these stations that are playing the unsigned bands that don't have the money to get their music played on mainstream radio. For those of us willing to go online to listen to music, there is a wide world of variety out there. Services like Spotify put such a huge library of music right at our fingertips. And for a small fee, they'll even take away the commercials. With Spotify you can search for, and listen to, entire albums from so many bands that you may never want to shut the software down. And this is just one of hundreds of such services on the web. On the other side of the coin, you have internet radio stations. This is the medium that I am proud to call myself a part of. I have a show called ViaMental on the radio station SH Rock (www.shmusicmedia.com), and on my show (and the other proudly featured shows on this amazing station), we play anything that we want to hear. From the hits, to the obscure, and of course, we proudly promote myriad independent artists on the station. The amazing thing about these artists is that their songs are every bit as good as the songs that you would hear on mainstream radio, but program directors are too afraid to play. And our station isn't the only one out there of course. There are so many internet radio stations, that you would be hard pressed to not find a genre that you want to tune in and enjoy the music for hours on end. Yes, I'm afraid that the days of FM radio must surely be coming to an end. Is it their own greed that will be the nail in the coffin of this once proud service to musicians and music lovers alike? Or will it be their own blindness to an ever growing world of great music, that stations like SH Rock proudly play and promote on a daily basis? Whatever the death knell may be, I think it's safe to say that the internet radio stations and streaming services will not be the death of music, but rather the rebirth.
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LOCAL ALTERNATIVE MUSIC SALES SOURCES
"Alternative Sales Outlets For Musicians" The Music industry and its respective music buyers have not, yet, strictly endorsed a digital music file environment for sales. As such, musicians/recording artists are still expected to have CDs available for both representing their music and for sale, particularly, during their live performances. The below list presents various types of local sales outlets and sources in your own home area that you may have never considered for selling your music but which may be interested in carrying your music for sale for their particular clients and customers while, simultaneously, increasing their business financial bottom line. In a number of the below outlets, the clients and customers are already "captive" audiences, so to speak, who are already waiting on a product or service, such as doctors' offices, coffee houses, barber/beauty shops, nail salons, etc. So, why not work with these types of businesses in order to promote, publicize, and sell your music through them and to their clients and customers as they wait for their main service. You should treat this process much like "music consignment," which is what it is. To be clear, you need to initially approach the business owner or manager with this proposal, offer to let them have a copy to listen to, then get back with them a week or so later to learn if you may provide them with copies of your music for sale. If they agree, you then provide them with a consignment agreement (which both you and them will sign and retain copies), leave approximately 5 copies of your music, then (call first) and return a week or so later to collect money for any sales made. Additionally, most of these sources already have their own in-house music system playing, so in order to encourage sales from their clients and customers, you should ask them to add your music to their own inhouse "playlist" as well as make a copy of your music visible in the waiting area. I have also suggested certain genres that I feel will lend themselves best to the particular businesses below; however, it will also depend on the business owners personal tastes, as well. NOTE: Be sure to (mainly) concentrate on small independent "Mom & Pop" type businesses as they are the most likely to be interested and supportive. Editor’s Note: Dr. Kenneth Love is a Jazz musician, recording artist, and writer/author. More details about him may be learned at
http://www.1waypr.com and http://www.kennylovejazz.com, respectively.
1. Music retail stores (Any) 2. Bookstores (Mostly soft, Jazz, New Age, but depends on store) 3. Flower shops (soft Folk, New Age, Jazz) 4. Boot stores (Country, Americana) 5. Western wear (Country, Americana) 6. Restaurants (Any, but depends on restaurant) 7. Church stores (Gospel, Christian) 8. Christian bookstores (Gospel, Christian) 9. Doctors' offices (Soft Rock, Pop Rock, New Age, Jazz) 10. Convenience stores (Any) 11. Airport gift shops (Any) 12. Bus station gift shops (Any) 13. Train station gift shops (Any) 14. Electronics stores (Any) 15. Office supplies (Any) 16. Corporate/company cafeterias (Jazz, New Age, Soft Rock) 17. Jewelry stores (Soft Rock, Jazz, New Age) 18. Barber shops (Any) 19. Beauty shops (Any) 20. Nail salons (Any) 21. Sports shops (Any) 22. Health clubs (Rock, Dance, Electronica) 23. Apartment management offices (Any) 24. Variety stores (Any) 25. Game arcades (Rock, Dance, Electronica) 26. Bed & Breakfast Inns (Jazz, New Age, Soft Rock) 27. Bridal consultants (Jazz, New Age, Soft Rock) 28. Bridal stores (Jazz, New Age, Soft Rock) 29. Tuxedo shops (Jazz, New Age, Soft Rock) 30. Bridal services (Jazz, New Age, Soft Rock) 31. Clothes cleaners (Any) 32. Mainstream clothing stores (Any) 33. Shoe stores (Any) 34. Coffee houses (Jazz, New Age, Soft Rock) 35. Computer stores (Any) 36. Eyeglass stores (Any) 37. Consignment shops (Any) 38. Farm supply stores (Country) 39. Flea markets (Any) 40. Swap shops (Any) 41. Formal wear stores (Any) 42. College bookstores (Any) 43. College music stores (Any) 44. Gift shops (Any) 45. Hardware stores (Any) 46. Hospital gift shops (Any) 47. Hotel gift shops (Any) 48. Insurance companies (Any) 49. Massage therapists (Jazz, New Age, Soft Rock) 50. Cellular telephone services (Any) 51. Motorcycle shops (Any) 52. Night clubs (Depends on the genre) 53. Party supply stores (Any) 54. Pawn shops (Any) 55. Cosmetic stores (Any) 56. Satellite dish stores (Any) 57. Thrift shops (Any) 58. Vehicle repair shops (Any)
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Rob’s Top Ten Favorite Progressive Rock Concept Albums By Rob “ViaMental” Mallory As far as music genres go, Progressive Rock is the one that is considered the least cool of them all. This wide genre of music is mostly ignored by just about every media medium that there is to be ignored by. So, it should come as no surprise that the fans of this type of music are fiercely loyal, especially towards their favorite bands. Within this genre there are myriad offshoots. In fact, there are so many that it would almost be a bit of a waste of time to list them all here. It would also take a very long time to list my favorites within this proud community of musical genius. So, I will not even try. Perhaps one of the greatest traditions in the world of Progressive Rock, is the concept album. An entire LP length saga that takes up the entire duration of the album to tell one centralized story. The lyrics generally move the story along as any good book would, by telling you a tale, and holding you hostage until the final words of the book, when you turn the last page, flip the book over, and start right over again. The music serves to aid in painting the world out in beautiful musical passages, and a generally rich tapestry of notes, feelings, and emotion (not to mention blistering guitars, pounding drums and bass guitars, and the staple of good progressive rock, the keyboards, and let us not forget the flute) There are so many great concept albums, that making a top ten list proved a little more difficult than I had initially imagined it could be. But, like all good lists, I sat down and took some time to really dig into what is easily my favorite form of music. The albums I have listed here are but a drop in a vast sea of amazing storytelling, through music. So after checking these albums out, I suggest you dig in deeper yourself, and see how much different your list will be from mine (as I’m sure nobody has this exact top
10: Coheed & Cambria: From Fear Through the Eyes of Madness Coheed & Cambria's entire discography make up the story of its namesake, and as such, I could have picked any album from their catalog, but this one is my favorite. Such a dark album, lyrically, as it is told from the point of view of the fictional person writing the entire story. The writer, to me, sounds as if he might be insane. The music here is phenomenal, and will remain one of my favorite albums for as long as I draw breath. Perhaps one of the greatest pieces of music ever written “The Willing Well”, takes up the final 28 minutes of this album, and contains one of the best guitar solos that I have ever had the pleasure of hearing.
09: Pink Floyd: The Final Cut Many people consider this to be a Roger Waters solo album, but this is all Pink Floyd to my ears (and the final Pink Floyd album to feature the classic line-up of the band). Many of these tracks were leftovers from “The Wall”, and in my opinion are leagues better than anything on that album (I know, probably not a popular opinion). One of the biggest complaints I hear are that there is too little of David Gilmour within these grooves. And while I can certainly understand that complaint, there are some sheer moments of brilliance from this revered guitar God. “The Final Cut” may not go down as a Pink Floyd favorite, but to me, it is their best work (even without Richard Wright).
08: Jeff Wayne's Musical Version of “The War of the World's” This musical version of “The War of the World's” is a stunning work of musical genius, from the mind of Mr. Jeff Wayne. The music on this two record concept album is very symphonic, thematic, and quite ahead of its time. There are some moments of pure cheese in the dialogue that, for the most part, tells this story, but that only adds to the charm. There are some beautiful vocal passages, with vocals from The Moody Blues frontman Justin Hayward, that send chills up my spine to this day. This is one of those albums that must be heard to be believed. Such a beautiful piece of music. So creepy, so raw, so worth the time.
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07: Marillion: Misplaced Childhood It was hard not to put this classic Progressive Rock concept higher up on the list, and almost feels wrong to have it at number seven. This is a true masterpiece of music, and my personal favorite of all of the Marillion albums. This is one of those albums that reveal more with each listen, with so many nuances and twists throughout. Lyrically, the album is an autobiographical look at then lead singer Fish's life. Musically, it is an emotional rollercoaster ride that listeners will want to totally immerse themselves in.
06: Jethro Tull/Ian Anderson: Thick As A Brick (½) The first “Thick As A Brick” album was released 40 years before its sequel, and the two of them had to be included on this list for the simple fact that they are both Progressive rock classics. Oh sure, part two is less than two years old at this point, but who's counting? The first album, lyrically, is based on a poem written by the fictional Gerald Bostock. The second album is what may have happened to this fictional character 40 years down the line, if he were to choose a few separate paths in his life. Musically the two are very similar, and they are both classics from the mind of Mr. Ian Anderson.
05: Ayreon – The Human Equation All of the Ayreon albums are concept albums, and I could have easily chosen any one of them for this list, but “The Human Equation” edged them all out, just slightly. As with all Ayreon album, there is an impressive list of guest stars on this one. From Dream Theater's James LaBrie, to Devin Townsend, the vocal section of this mini rock opera is almost as impressive as the ethereal and sometimes blistering musical powerhouse of this double concept album. Our story follows a man who gets in a car wreck, and is trapped inside his mind with all of his own emotions. It's a very cool story, and with the music, it almost feels like a movie.
04: Spock's Beard – Snow For what would be the bands final album with it's founding father and primary song writer, Neal Morse, Spock's Beard did something that so few Progressive Rock bands have ever dared: they tackled the double concept album. Now, with two discs to tell the story, one might think that there would be a lot of filler material, but that is far from the truth. The entire album is a story of beautiful music, and one of self discovery. Telling the story of a man named Snow, who can read the future just by touching someone, Neal has written an amazing tale, and musically every member of the band shines on this one. If this was to be the swan song of NM in Spock's Beard, he certainly went out with a bang.
03: Rush – Clockwork Angels In 2012, Rush did something that no band have ever done before, in my opinion: They released their greatest album 38 years after their debut release. “Clockwork Angels” is everything that fans have come to expect from the band, but they took their musicianship and lyric writing up a few notches. This album tells the story of a young man who went from having his entire life planned out for him, to learning to live, and love, in the moment. Musically, this is some of the heaviest music since the bands early days, but also some very melodic moments. There are moments I take away a clear “Signals” era vibe, and others where the band is treading completely on new territory. Quite impressive for a band that have been in the game as long as Rush have.
02: Neal Morse – Testimony 2 After Neal left Spock's Beard, citing religious convictions, he wrote his first solo concept album, “Testimony”, telling his life story. The album was a double disc, and contains many fan favorites. The sequel fills in the gaps that the first album didn't touch on. From the opening tracks of “Mercy Street” and “Overture No. 4”, to the truly heartbreaking “Jayda”, the reunion of the Spock's Beard vocal section on “Time Changer”, and the beautiful album closer “Crossing Over / Mercy Street”, Neal and the band (Randy George, and Mike Portnoy) turn in one amazing album in their discography, and one of my favorite concept albums.
01: Dream Theater – Scenes From A Memory Since the release of DT's widely loved “Images & Words” album, fans had been chomping at the bit for the sequel to “Metropolis”. Finally, with a new keyboardist en-tow (Jordan Rudess), the band tackled the task, and in very fine form. The story tells of a man being hypnotized into remembering his past life as a woman, and the center of a love triangle between two brothers. Musically, the album contains some of the most complex and jaw-dropping arrangements of the bands careers (“Overture 1928”, “Beyond This Life”, “The Dance of Eternity”), and some of the most beautiful moments as well (“Through Her Eyes', and “The Spirit Carries On”). To this day, this album remains my number one favorite concept album of all time.
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LIVE REPORT
Edge of Paradise are a major kick in the ass for hard rock. A combination of classic and modern hard rock featuring the soaring female fronted vocals of Margrita Monet and amazing guitars of Dave Bates. In 2013, the band released “Perfect Shade Of Black”, which picks up where 2011’s “Mask” (featuring bassist Tony Franklin and drummer Gregg Bissonette) left off. The band is currently on a tour of the Eastern US in support of the new release and LOUDNEZZ caught them at The Legendary Dobbs in Philadelphia. The history of Dobbs is seen on the wall, as pictures and flyers of many greats like Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Soul Asylum and Oasis to name a few grace the building. As the band starts their set with “Perfect Shade Of Black”, you can easily see why this band is one to watch. First, we need to say that vocalist Margarita Monet is beautiful and if you are not careful, you might spend your night just focusing on her. This will only be short lived in part with the shredding guitar work of Dave Bates. The band is full throttle to start the set and has a great duo heading up the bottom end of the sound with bassist Nick Ericson and drummer John Chominsky keeping everything tight and on target. The band would go into other tracks from “Perfect” including the powerful “Break Away” and the power ballad “In A Dream”. They would also do a ripping cover of Motley Crue’s “Streets Of Los Angeles”. Edge of Paradise is one band that also can take what’s on disc and hold up live, which many bands have problems doing. This is one band to keep in your radar and if they come to your area, make it a point to see them live. Maybe it won’t be too long till we see their name on the Dobb’s wall of bands. - Jim Santora
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Photos by Leroy Hickman 19
Independent Scene
One Man Death Metal Machine! I had the pleasure of talking to the Mastermind behind Fleshtorn, Brannnan Hayes, recently. Fleshtorn is a one man Death Metal band out of North Carolina. Loudnezz: Thank you for taking the time to this interview. Can you tell me a little about your band? Brannan: Your welcome man! Well let's see, I'm a one man death metal band called FleshTorn, with an old school death metal sound. I program the drum tracks, play the guitar and growl. I'm currently going in a different direction lyrically about alien life forms on other planets and how they maul each other, and using that to metaphorically represent things in everyday human life. It still has that brutal feel to it, but in a different way. L: Sounds like a great direction to go. It doesn't seem many people go in that direction. How did you come up with that idea? B: We'll funny story actually, I was watching TV, and it was about if aliens existed what they would be like, and it showed them as less intelligent life forms. Sort of like animals we have here on earth. Then the idea just hit me. And I wanted to be more unique and take my music to a deeper level, I figured this would be a good way to do it. L: I would assume that alien life would have varying degrees of intelligence and maybe behave differently than us. It gives a lot to write about. Are you doing a concept album or will each song be about a different race of alien? B: We'll I'm going to create an EP or album, with the title being the planet, but it's going to be named with numbers and letters like we name stars and planets now. And each song will be about different scenarios in that planet having to do with two or more creatures. In some circumstances the creature could be a parasite inside the other creatures veins, another could be about an animal devouring its prey. I know a really talented artist. She is really good, she'll probably do my artwork
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L: Will you give each one a different 'voice'? Maybe clean vocals for one?
It’s complicated man at this age because I rely on other people to go places.
B: That could definitely be a possibility; I may use clean vocals in small parts of some songs to give it a spacey feel. But the majority of the songs will be completely guttural and dirty vocals. ha-ha
L: Yes I remember those days. It was hard to get the parents to take the brontosaurus out of the cave to take me places. And speaking of age how did you start listening to the more extreme music when most people you age are listening to bands like Pierce the Veil and Black Veil Brides?
L: Do you have plans on making Fleshtorn a full band or do you see it as always being just you? B: I have considered making Fleshtorn a full band, but in my current situation, because I live in a country town, and any potential drummers and guitarists with the certain skill set required for playing this extreme music will probably be in the city, and I’m not old enough to go there on my own, id have to have someone drive me, it would just be chaos, so I’m going to wait until college to find other members possibly . because the city isn’t within walking distance ha-ha L: So I guess it will be a few more years until we get to see Fleshtorn live then. What bands that influenced you the most would you like to tour or play a show with if you could? Even bands that might not still be together today. B: Actually, there are several one man bands that pull off playing live by themselves, by using pre recorded background tracks. A few examples are "Blood Soaked" and putrid pile. So I may play live sooner than that. L: That's great. I've never seen it done. That would be interesting to see. Are there places near you to play or would you have to go to the city? B: Well driving distance it isn’t that far, so I could have someone drive me, ha-ha so probably the city.
B: Well ha-ha i started out with less heavy stuff like Disturbed, and Slipknot, and then saw a TV show called Metalocaylpse. that TV show is what got me into death metal. haha now I’m a huge fan of many old school bands like Cannibal Corpse, Carcass, Grave, Death, Vomitory, Unleashed, Bloodbath, Bolt Thrower, Immolation, Necrophagist, and many more. I’m naturally old school man, and I really hope to bring that sound back. Oh forgot Morbid Angel haha L: It makes me feel old seeing those bands being called old school since I remember them starting out. Is there anything you would like our readers to know about Fleshtorn that I didn't cover? B: Yes there is, LIKE MY PAGE FLESHTORN ON FACEBOOK, KEEP OLDSCHOOL ALIVE\m/ okay that’s about it. L: Thank you for taking the time to do this interview! Good luck with the album and I can't wait to hear it! B: No problem man, I’m always happy to do interview stay brutal \m/ - Leroy Hickman
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Independent Scene
Return of Old School Thrash! I had the pleasure of interviewing Mariyan from Mosh-Pit Justice. They have an old school thrash sound that should appeal to anyone who loves 80s thrash especially the Bay Area sound..
Loudnezz: For those that don't know you can you tell the readers about your band?
Mariyan: Sure, Mosh-Pit Justice is a project in the likes of early Forbidden, Overkill, and Exodus. The band was formed in June of 2012 and so far we have 2 EPs and debut album o EBM records ( band got signed in April 2013 )
The band members are Georgi Peichev -vocals ,Staffa Vasilev -all guitars and Mariyan G. -bass
The band hails from Burgas ,Bulgaria
L: You can definitely hear your influences but has a modern edge to it. How has the reaction from fans been to the music?
M: When I started the writing process I wanted to be something more traditional back in the day power/thrash metal. but after the rest of the guys putt their mark it turned out little bit more up today .For example in the song "IN DOLLAR WE TRUST" you can hear a lot of European power metal , it just turned out this way unintentional .So far we have pretty good response ,we have old school guys in their late 30's and 40's who liked it along with some younger people .I think that people like the mixture of classic and new age style.
L: So you write most of the music and everyone comes in and adds to it or does everyone come up with songs?
M: Yeah I come up with the rough product and than the other guys come in and putt some harmonies and improve and then finally we get the final product.
L: Do they help with lyrics or are they all yours?
M: I write all lyrics.
L: Have you played live or is the band a studio project only?
M: For now we are just a studio project but if we get a good offer for touring will definitely will take it .
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L: If you could do your own tour and tour with anyone. What would your dream lineup be?
M: ahah I will love to tour Germany ,Netherlands, Sweden, England. My dream bill will be Overkill, Sanctuary, Dark Angel, Forbidden and us and lets don't forget Japan
L: If you need a roadie let me know. That would be an awesome line up! How long have you been playing bass and do you play any other instruments?
You are on hahah ,I've been playing since I was 15 years old ,actually back in the day, me and the guys from the project used to play in band called Hlebarka ,on this album we redid a old song from these days called Dark Angel ,when I write music I usually use an acoustic guitar .
L: Do you plan on doing more songs from then or is that the only one you are going to do?
M: Maybe ,but not sure yet problem is that it was long time ago and most of the material we had there on cassettes got lost .
L: That's ashamed they got lost. Hopefully you can dig some up for the next album. Is there a big metal scene in Bulgaria?
M: Yeah I hope so ,will have to look through my junk lol
The scene in Bulgaria is growing slowly but surely, there are lots of metal maniacs!!
L: That's awesome! Hopefully more bands will become better known from there. What other bands should our readers check out from Bulgaria?
M: They definitely should check THE OUTER LIMITS ,old school thrash you may find the singer sounding familiar haha It’s George from Mosh-Pit Justice :) ,their debut will be released later this year
Also The revenge project (melodic death/thrash ) They already released 3 albums.
L: Great! I'll have to check them out and hopefully get them in future issues! Well I would like to thank you for taking the time to do this interview. Is there anything you would like our readers to know that I might have missed?
M: Just want to thank all our friends that contributed on Kickstarter.com for our debut release , support original music !!!!
L: If any wants to get a CD or shirt, how can they contact you?
M: They can contact the band via e-mail mosh-pitjustice@hotmail.com for info and merchandise - Leroy Hickman
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Independent Scene
I had the opportunity to talk to Sanitarium’s Frank Birkner. Sanitarium is a thrash band out of Southern New Jersey. Their first self titled album reminded of the great thrash of the 80s but still sounded modern. I did this interview as they were preparing to unleash their second CD upon us.
Loudnezz: I would like to thank you for taking the time to do this interview. Could you tell me a little about Sanitarium?
Frank: Thank you for wanting to talk to me. Sanitarium began as a one man thrash project back in '11, but as of a few months ago, with my long time friend Mike Watkins joining, it's become a duo. Musically, I'd like to say I draw from many bands, but the one thing I think you'll hear in us is Metallica.
L: Are you planning on having a full band or keep going as a duo?
F: One day I'd love to do a full band line-up, but until I can find enough people we click with, it will remain a duo.
L: Besides Metallica, who are you influences?
F: Largely Slayer, Gama Bomb, Evile, and a bit of Judas Priest. There's some Beatles and other classic bands in the mix though.
L: Are Mike's influences the same or will be bring a different dynamic to the band?
F: He's really into the groove metal type stuff. Pantera and Lamb of God type stuff as well as the thrash stuff. He's a huge Dimebag fan, and I think he'll bring an entirely different edge to things.
L: I know you are working on a new album. Is everything written or will you work on songs with him for the new album?
F: A little of both. He's doing most of the leads on the album, and we're writing a few songs together, but the next album will be the one where his contributions will really shine
L: What is the new album called and when will it be done?
F: It's called "The Colour Out of Space." It should be done late summer or early fall.
L: How many songs do you have for it?
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F: Eleven
L: What's the song writing process like? Do you usually write lyrics or the music first?
F: Mostly music first, then fill in the lyrics by syllable. But sometimes, I'll come up with lyrics first and write the riffs to fit the lyrics.
L: How long does it usually take to write a song?
F: Musically? A couple of days. Lyrics can take a day or a few weeks. Recording an entire song takes a couple days.
L: Would like you like to do live shows? Would you consider getting session musician to do shows or tour?
F:I'd love to do live shows. Mike and I are in the process of trying to find a drummer and bassist to complete the lineup. Session musicians were an option I considered, but I'd prefer to have a full, permanent lineup
L: I think the permanent lineup is a good way to go. It seems bassists are hard to come by. Have you sent anything to record labels or have anyone interested in signing you?
F: I'm not really too worried about labels as of right now. No label would sign a band with no live show and no tours, which I completely understand. So it's not a priority at this time.
L: I think someone would. Just keep putting out the quality of music you do and I'm sure they will come knocking soon. Well I would like to thank you for doing this interview. Anything you would like to tell our readers that I might have left out?
F: Nothing I can think of. Thanks for the opportunity man.
L: You're welcome...Keep up making great music! How can someone contact you if they are interested in your music?
Sanitariumthrash@gmail.com
Facebook.com/sanitariumthrash - Leroy Hickman
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Independent Scene
A*STAR With their newest single, “Let It Lie”, less than a month old at the time I am writing this, fans are already eagerly awaiting for the next work from Chicago’s own A*Star. A*Star is one of those bands that, continually surprise their fans by expanding their sound and trying something a little bit different for each single that they release. Anybody wanting to box this band into a certain category, or label, would be hard pressed to come up with any one group to lump them into. Their sound is so diverse and fresh, that it is unlike anything I have ever heard before. The only real category I could put them in would be “rock” in general, and even that does not do this amazing outfit the justice that they deserve. This is an act that are spreading through word of mouth, and not by mainstream radio (as that whole medium for band promotion is quite the dying breed). They have a strong internet following, and every fan is well earned. With their emotional music, and thought provoking lyrics, this is one band that must be heard to be believed. While hints of what the future holds for the band keep popping up, band members Perry Pelonero and Kim Welsh were kind enough to answer some questions for our first issue of “Loudnezz”.
01: Before going into the future, can you tell us a little bit about where this band has been, both before the creation of A*Star, and during? Kim: Perry and I met in early 2008 when he was looking for a singer for Skylight—all studio work, since our other band mate (Brent Martino) was in Massachusetts. Later that year we were itching to do some live shows, and we had been experimenting with some darker sounds, and Bliss City East was born. That was a funny time for us—we were going through a lot of personal crises and it came out in our music and lyrics. We went through a lot of band members—I mean a LOT. We were probably miserable to work with! Then we found Eric D’Asto, who helped us craft a more pop sound. The super-dark went away. Eric was with us for a couple of years and a few other musicians came and went. Perry and I did a little project called Morpheme and released an EP, and also did some other guest work. I think it was early 2012 when we called it quits on Bliss City East; we had different goals. Oddly enough, Perry and I were the ones who didn’t want to do many live shows anymore. It’s such a pain in the butt when you have kids and have to find a babysitter and PAY a babysitter! We weren’t getting any joy out of it. Eric and Melanie Yodnane, the drummer we’d been playing with, moved on to form their new band. Perry and I went back to messing around in the studio and A*Star came to be. Sometimes I miss the dark stuff, and that’s when songs like Catch the Moon get written. 02: You have quite the back catalog of singles already under your belt, will there be a CD release compiling all of these songs in the future? Kim: We are working on a full-length album that will have a lot of the singles and some new stuff too. We’re not sure about format, but CD seems to make sense. Perry: Our record label out of ST LOUIS Boxer Clever records will be releasing our full length early next year. We have discussed multiple formats including vinyl.
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03: Can you tell us a little bit about what goes into writing / recording a new A*Star song? Kim: I’ll let Perry explain this one. I usually get a track when it’s all structured and rough-mixed and then I write the vocals. Honestly, it might not be the best way. Too many good songs have been left in the dust because I get frustrated with it. Perry: I normally lay the foundation for the songs down and record it. I write the base of the song. I send it off to Ian who then adds drums and does all the production work. He gets me back a demo and we pass it on to Kim. Mike Parkin then comes in and records his guitar. Its hard to say if this is the best way to do it or not. We have never really been able to work properly with a live band for various shitty reasons. Maybe its us? Hard to say.
04: I know this is an obvious question, but one that must be asked, Who were/are some of your biggest influences? Kim: I’m a kid of the 70s and 80s, so my influences came first from my dad’s records. I used to love to sing to Linda Ronstadt! Also stuff like Steely Dan, Tom Petty, The Cars… my grade-school girlfriends and I also loved Blondie and would lip-sync along with her when she was on Solid Gold. In my teens I was a Duran Duran and then a Madonna fanatic. (I think they made me love a good hook!) I even went through a Chicago House phase and an R&B phase. Then of course there’s my perfect three: Pink Floyd, Rush, and Led Zeppelin. In fact, when I first met Perry, he mentioned those three PLUS an indie-pop band called Ivy, which I love, and I figured if someone actually mentioned those groups together, we were probably going to work together just fine.
Perry: I could go on for hours about this. But i do not agree its killing the business. The business is dead and has been for years. Its not coming back anytime soon either. So we just do what we do out of the love we have doing it. Simple. 07: Musically speaking, your songs are very innovative and sometimes have a very sprawling ethereal sort of feel to them, and I have really never heard anything quite like it. What would you say draw on to get such a unique sound? Kim: Ha! That’s quite nice to hear. I guess it’s because we have such a gigantic range of music that we love. Perry: Thank you btw. Its funny we have not really ever sat down and said OK we are gonna sound like this band. We just sit down and do what we do. And yes we draw on influences of the music we have listened to our entire lives. Black and Blue however had a massive Cars influence because at the time we were listening to them non stop. Its just come out the way it has. Past bands were different. bliss.city.east was fun when it started. The songs were dark but also fun to play. I took from our current crisis in life and the music was very raw. As time went on writing the songs for it became a bore to me. So then Kim and I switched things up with A*Star and the music came out just the way we wanted it. We once again drew from our current life. MOOD. It seems to be all about mood.
Perry: Classic rock old school R&B and Punk Rock. Its what i grew up on.
05: What bands are you into these days? Kim: I’m on an old-school R&B kick. I’m having a really hard time getting into any new music. We have friends who are putting out good stuff. And then there’s a lot of garbage out there. I get weary of it all and tend to look back to my influences. Perry: I am on a serious metal/Punk Rock/Hardcore thing right now. I grew tired of all the goofy shit and decided it was time to go back. Bands like EYEHATEGOD who have been around a long time are still recording and touring and Mike IX is an awesome dude and likes A*Star. But i always switch things up. Just depends on my mood.
06: I’ve read a lot of established artists say that internet radio stations and streaming services are killing the music business. Would you agree with that? Kim: Nooooooooooooo. The music business is killing the music business. FM radio plays such filth (pop music sucks SO BAD right now!) that the only way to hear good stuff is to go to the internet. Even the classic rock stations here in Chicago repeat the same songs over and over and over. It’s tiresome. We can put some blame on technology and the Internet—everyone can be a musician. You don’t have to be able to sing. You don’t even have to be able to write. The producers are the music makers! The market is diluted with mediocrity. That said, thank God for the Internet, because nobody in the music business would look twice at us. I guess we’re lucky? Hmmmmm…
08: A*Star lyrics are among some of the best lyrics I have ever heard, where do you draw on inspiration for these lyrics? How much time goes into a set of lyrics? Kim: Well dang, that’s nice to hear too! Lyrics can take anywhere from 15 minutes to a few months to write. I agonize over them—I want the perfect word, the perfect cadence, the lovely roll-off-thetongue. Sometimes they come from literature. (Lotus is based on The Lotos-Eaters by Tennyson.) Or I’ll pick up Bartlett’s Familiar Quotations and find one that seems interesting to build upon. We’ve done politics. Once I wrote a song about the AllClad pots and pans I wanted. (We never finished that one.) Once I wrote lyrics about a Darth Vader head hot air balloon. Sometimes the songs are deeply personal. Flashbulb is about losing someone you love to dementia. Perry: Kim’s lyrics are some of the best I have ever heard. People need to pay more attention. Its annoying when they do not.
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A*STAR
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09: Tell us a little bit about your radio show, “Don’t Get Stupid”? Has it opened any doors for the band? Kim: Ha! It’s probably closed some doors. No, not really. I think we’ve made a few new fans from it, but for the most part, the show and the band are very, very separate. Some people may already know this, but we got the idea for the current format when we were watching a video where Neil, Geddy and Alex were having dinner and just having a lot of fun together. It was a fly-on-the-wall view into their real personalities. We try to have that kind of interaction with our guests, or even when we don’t have a guest and it’s just Perry and me. We spend a little time talking about their current projects and a LOT of time talking about what they do when they’re not working. Perry: It started out drunk and rude. And ended up drunk and semi rude and just fun. Its chill and we love doing it when we can. Its tough to get all these guests on the show because it takes forever to make plans for it. This is why we do not do shows weekly. We have some cool guests coming up though. Fun will be had. Not one time have we had a shitty guest either. Its always been fun. 10: What is on the horizon for A*Star? Will there be a full length album, or even a tour? Kim: I doubt we’ll tour, though never say never! Full-length… yes yes yes. Perry: Right now I am burnt out on playing music in general. I have not picked up the guitar in months and really have no intention of doing so. Someday I will but I think for me its a matter of what is more important in my life. I would rather sit back with some beer and listen to somebody else's music. Kim and I have been doing this for a long time together. Its been amazing. Some ups and some really shitty downs. But we have managed to weed out the crap in our lives and make it so its comfortable for us to sit down and write music whenever we feel like doing it. We have been asked to do tours and play live again. But really unless we are getting paid properly for our time we would rather sit at home with our family and have our own fun. And YES the full length is coming on Boxing Clever Records. Details soon! A*Star Bandcamp Page: http://astarmusic.bandcamp.com A*Star Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AStarBand - Rob Mallory
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Josh Brown and Co. Return With
First New Music In 12 Years If you remember the late 1990’s, it was a time where Nu Metal ruled. Korn, Limp Bizkit and Deftones were the leaders of the pack. Another band that was making a name also during that period was Full Devil Jacket. Here was a band bringing a new blend of modern hard rock and metal. In 2000, they released their self-titled CD featuring the tracks “Where Did You Go?” and “Now You Know”. The CD would go gold and the band during this time would go on to perform at Woodstock 99 and play with bands ranging from Creed to Slayer in the process. Things would eventually come to a halt with the band just as they were making their rise. Vocalist Josh Brown suffered a drug overdose and eventually left the band. He would later come back and front Day of Fire. Other original members like guitarist Jonathan Montoya for go on to play with bands like Saliva, while others went on to other smaller projects. Then in 2011, original member Michael Reaves lost a battle to cancer. In June of that year, Full Devil Jacket reunited for a benefit show in Reaves honor. This would lead to the reformation of the band and the first new music from the band in over 12 years. Joining Brown is original member and drummer Keith Foster along with guitarists, Brian Kirk and Paul Varnick and bassist Moose Douglass. Josh says after the benefit show that “What we realized was that there was something more than music here. We grew up together, we were family”. The result would be that eight months later, they were talking about doing another record as Full Devil Jacket.
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I asked about the new track “Seven Times Down” and wanted to know what it was like putting that song together (New CD will be available December 3) after being away for 12 years. Brown states “Our music is honest and genuine and Seven Times Down is a snapshot about battling with drug addiction. The song title actually a verse out of scripture that says a Righteous Man Falls Seven Times, Seven Times He Gets Up. Life is not just about mountaintops. There’s lots of valleys and lots of wars. The song is about fighting the fight and getting back up and it’s where I am at in my own life.” We spoke about the history of the band. I asked Josh what the experience was like being a new band and all of the opportunities that were starting to stockpile at that time. “It was a great experience as it was what I dreamed about my entire life.” says Brown. “I played shows with Stone Temple Pilots and Slipknot. Slayer, Creed and Nickelback. We played with just about every band on the radio in the late 90’s. It showed me that people wanted to hear my voice and the music. At the same time, I was battling hardcore drug addiction back then.” He continues by saying that “Drugs at the time were a part of my scene, my spirituality. As I was playing those shows, more drugs came as more fame came and I had to get away and regrouped. I have lived a lifetime since then but the battle is always there.” Our conversation came back to now and the new record. The one interesting thing was that the band started a Kickstarter campaign for this upcoming release and I asked about how that experience worked for the band. Brown stated that “Kickstarter is an amazing tool. It really helped the band get into the studio but it also showed how much fans care about what I do as a band. Kickstarter showed me we have some great fans.” Brown continued by saying “Any band that’s worth its salt should give it a try. It’s much easier to be more involved with the fan base and so many different avenues to take. I am excited to get this new music out for everyone to hear it. This music is just like it was when I was 19. I wake up and I am singing it and can’t wait to get it to the fans.” I then asked if being more of a DIY project this time around if it feels like the band was more on the same playing field with the record labels, Josh said; “No doubt about it. The internet has changed everything. There are pros and cons. The big difference is that with the labels, you could get promotion money and a lot of people can hear your music quickly. What’s cool now is that we are building our own working model, and it’s very exciting.” I asked about the next steps after the CD is released and Josh told us that “Full Devil Jacket has always been a live band. We will be touring all throughout all over 2014. We hope to be on some package tours as well as some headlining tours. As we close the interview, we talk more about the release date and Josh tells me that at first it was going to be a 7-song EP, but there were so many songs, that they decided to put out a full CD. He continued to show his excitement and that he was “Having a blast.” Full Devil Jacket is back and hopefully they will be here to stay.
- Jim Santora
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Smile Empty Soul Back in 2005 was the first time I had heard Smile Empty Soul and their song “Bottom Of The Bottle”. This was a three-piece band that had the makings of a great rock band. Over the years, success has always seemed to elude them. They come out with brilliant music with every release and they seem to get ignored (However, this writer named 2012’s “3’s” one of the best releases of that year). At the time of this interview, we catch up with guitarist/vocalist Sean Danielsen as he prepares for a show in Trenton NJ. Their latest release “Chemicals” is another hard rock classic from this trio and we discuss the new record, their constant touring and about putting out a CD on their own. JS – Sean, my first question for you is to tell me about the differences between the new record “Chemicals” and 2012’s “3’s” as they are two solid releases that are a little more than a year apart. SD – One of the things we did differently was the recording process. We wanted to give it more of a live feel. More raw. A more human feel to it. So we recorded the drums, bass and guitar all at the same time. We did very minimal editing to that. We threw some vocals over the top and very little editing. JS – I totally get the raw feel with this record. Is there more of an angrier tone with this record? SD – I don’t know. Those are the kind of things we don’t plan out. But I can see what you mean. As I progress as a vocalist, I have learned to control little things. I may of gotten better in parts and started pushing. JS – This actual release is something your putting out on your own. You have been a band that for one reason or another have bounced around from different labels. Tell us a little about branching out and doing your own thing? SD – We bounced around a lot in our career. It’s hard to function without stability. It’s hard because not only to you have to create music but you have to go out and find a home. With so much work, it’s hard to release music as much as we want to. After the last one (3’s), we were pretty discouraged. We thought we were going to have the big label push like we did with our first record and it didn’t really pan out like that. Then an opportunity arose while touring for that record. An old friend of ours partnered up with us and we formed a label. Then some other friends of our partnered up with us on distribution. Before you knew it, we had our own situation. Our own freedom to run the campaign the way we wanted to and have our people in place.
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.JS – So there are no more third parties involved in this release? SD – We have the creative freedom and we now have the freedom of what to do with radio and marketing now. JS – One of the things I like about the songs and draw me are the ones that are the “relationship” type songs and you have a certain way of writing songs. “False Alarm” and “Balance” really stand out on this release. Tell us a little about what you were going for on those tracks? SD – “Balance” is pretty straight forward. It’s about somebody else being able to balance out the person that you are. “False Alarm” has some specific meanings to me but I would like to leave that up to the listener. It’s kind of cryptic lyrically and can be taken several different ways and would like to leave things to the listeners interpetation. JS – The one cool thing that I like about the song “False Alarm” is that the chorus becomes the main part of the song. It goes chorus, verse, chorus. How did that come along. SD – This song in particular came up pretty abnormal. I came up with it while driving. I hummed them into my phone and wrote the song in 10 minutes. It almost wrote itself and it was like it had to start with the chorus.
Smile Empty Soul: Ryan Martin, Sean Danielsen, Jake Tilmer
JS – You guys like being on the road and always going across the country. Tell us about being on the road and share with us about being out there on the road for long periods at a time. SD – Right now it’s one of our main tools today. It’s our most consistent tool and it’s in our control. We love doing it and we stay out for the last 10 years. Let’s face it. Radio has been spotty for us and record sales these days are almost non-existent. So the road is looking like one of the last things that rock bands even have anymore. JS – In my opinion, I feel that Smile Empty Soul is one of the most underrated bands out there today. Do fans ever come up and tell you something similar and what are your thoughts? SD – It’s funny you say that because fans tell us all the time that we are underrated and wish we were more well known. It would make things a lot easier. It’s great to hear things like that because we feel that we are impacting peoples lives and they appreciate what we do and we love doing this. It’s what keeps us going and love hearing positive feedback about our music.
Smile Empty Soul’s “Chemicals” is available now
JS – What are the plans in 2014. SD – We will be on tour until December 15. Looks like we will take January off and then get back out in February. Then March and April we are planning a tour package that will be in the works. -Jim Santora
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Photo by John Payne
Marty McCoy Gets Us Tangled Inside “Charlatan’s Web” By Jim Santora There are bands that go years never catching a break. Then there are bands that by pure luck or an act of god, have everything handed to them on a silver platter. Then there is Bobaflex, probably one of the hardest working bands in hard rock today. Since 2005, Bobaflex has been a no-nonsense 5 piece rock machine from West Virginia that through hard work, extensive touring and putting out some great music, looks to have things starting to go their way. Their 2011 release of “Hell In My Heart” in many circles was considered one of the best rock records of the year and featured the tracks “Bury Me With My Guns On”, “Chemical Valley” and the Simon and Garfunkle classic “The Sounds Of Silence”. We spoke to guitarist Marty McCoy about their latest release “Charlatan’s Web”. At the time of the interview, the first single “Bad Man” had been moving up the Rock Charts and was the bands highest charting song to date. However, this doesn’t mean the band is slowing down for a second.
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I asked Marty about how radio is really starting to take notice to Bobaflex with the release of “Bad Man” and he said that “It’s an amazing thing and the help over the years with internet radio and smacking the walls down. We recently hit #35 on the charts and that was the highest we have ever been and doors that wouldn’t open before are starting to squeak open a little bit. It’s going really well and I am happy at this time and it’s been a long time coming”. As we spoke about the new record, my next question was in relation between “Hell In My Heart” and “Charlatan’s Web” and what was it like going into the studio to prepare and the finished product. Marty first explained how it was different because “Hell In My Heart” did have success and there was a “we will do what we want” approach with that record. The band wanted to continue with that approach with “Charlatan’s Web”. As Marty states, “We weren’t worried about trends, we all worked on a song together and didn’t care which way it went or what kind of feel it had. We didn’t say it has to be brutal or it has to be like this or that. It was a really fun record and everyone in the band got to sew their creative oats”. Marty also said that it was a quick record and his favorite record so far. Our discussion turned to some of the songs on “Charlatan’s Web” and the first being “Bad Man”. I said to Marty in my opinion, that “Bad Man” had all the ingredients of what “for lack of a better term” radio single should be. I also asked about the humor of lyrics in their songs including tracks like “I’m Glad You’re Dead”. In fact, when asked the question, Marty states that his father asked if the song was about him. Marty’s brother ----- who is the vocalist of the band came up with the lyrics to the song. “He was real “ate up” about this guy who kidnapped this teenage girl and the cops eventually shot and killed him” says Marty “and the response on CNN from the girl about how she felt and she said “I’m glad he’s dead”. It’s dark but it has some humor”. Marty goes on to say that his favorite part of the song is when it breaks down into a 50’s feel in the middle and we are having a party during the funeral. We then discussed the opening track “Love Letter” where immediately Marty said “That’s a real voice mail”. When I asked about the back story, he goes on to say that a good booking agent is hard to find over the years in this business. This voice mail is from a booking agent that was fired from the band because he didn’t do his job. The agent went on to send several voice mails expressing his displeasure of the band and they decided to put on the record. Marty also says that “These people are out there where they take your money but they don’t do their job. If this was any person with a regular job, if they don’t do their job, they are going to get fired.” As we shifted to touring, I mentioned to Marty how in other interviews I have done with bands that they mention touring with Bobaflex and what nice things these artists had to say about the band. Marty says “That’s really nice to hear. We we’re really fortunate to cut our teeth on the road with Sevendust, Mudvayne and Megadeth to kind of show us the ropes and take us under their wing”. Marty also states that “When you’re on the road with other bands, you become family regardless if you don’t like that band or not. By the end of the tour you love every single thing that comes out of the singer’s mouth. You love every single guitar lick that comes out of the amp. It’s a rough cut-throat business and when you meet nice bands that help you out, you remember that and you want to return the favor”. Bobaflex plans to hit every “nook and cranny” on this tour as they plan to start out west and hooking up with band (and friends) Soil, Royal Bliss and Wayland. The plan is to be out on the road until February/March timeframe. Marty’s goal to get out on the road and hopefully have “Charlatan’s Web” become the greatest record in the nation. Marty states “We are going to keep our head down and keep doing what we do and we have a great team”.
Photo by John Payne
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The Theory Of Everything
On October 29th, Ayreon released their brand new album “The Theory of Everything”. Ayreon is the brain child of multi-instrumentalist Arjen Lucassen. The album is a two disc concept album, broken down into just 4 songs.
The album, as all Ayreon albums, will feature a slew of guest vocalists and musicians, and some pretty impressive ones at that. Taking generously from the world of Progressive Rock, the vocalists include John Wetton (Asia, King Crimson), Marco Hietala (Nightwish, Tarot), Tommy Karevik (Kamelot, Seventh Wonder), and Cristina Scabbia (Lacuna Coil), just to name a few. And if that list wasn’t impressive enough, Arjen also employed the help of Rick Wakeman, Keith Emerson, Jordan Rudess, and Steve Hackett (again, just to name a few) for various instrumental passages.
Working on the promotion for the new album, Arjen Lucassen is a very busy man, but that didn’t stop him from taking a few minutes to answer some questions for this inaugural issue of LOUDNEZZ. Who were some of your biggest influences? The holy trinity from my formative years, the 70's: Pink Floyd, The Beatles and Led Zeppelin. And of course the mighty Rainbow with Dio.
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Do you prefer digital files, or the physical copy? I've got no more space for physical copies, I've got way too many! So now I'm getting more choosy, it has to be really good (and cool artwork!) for me to get the physical copy. Who are some of the artists / bands that you are really liking at the moment? Devin Townsend, Katatonia, Toehider Who haven't you worked with, that you still wish to in the future? The musicians I listened to when I grew up, back in the 70's. Like David Gilmour, Robert Plant, Alice Cooper, Ritchie Blackmore etc. The trailer for "The Theory of Everything" looks amazing. Can you tell us a little bit about the music, story, and the making of the album? Glad you like the trailer. Wow.. there's no way to answer that question in a few lines, I would need three pages for that! I guess you can 'steal' it from the biography? :-) With so many amazing guest musicians, does it get a bit hectic behind the scenes? Indeed it's quite hard to arrange all the guest musicians logistically speaking. But they all come one at the time, so it's never really hectic. Do you think that social media has been a positive influence in your music career? Yes, it has been so far. More and more people get to hear and discover my music. And I'm still selling plenty of copies to the loyal fans. And I love to stay in contact with the fans. and share our thoughts. Will there be any sort of live performances in support of "The Theory of Everything"? No, sorry, Ayreon is not a live project. Any words of advice for someone who is thinking of putting together a progressive rock act? Try to make timeless music, don't follow fashions. Be inspired by other acts, but don't try to copy them. And don't ever expect to earn a living from playing progressive music, or impress the chicks :-) Are you excited for the Doctor Who 50th celebrations? Tom Baker is the man! Jelly baby anyone? :-) “The Theory of Everything� is out now on Inside Out Records. Please visit Arjen online at: http://www.arjenlucassen.com/ - Rob Mallory
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EYE EMPIRE VOCALIST DONALD CARPENTER
KEEPS PRESSING AS BAND DELIVERS “EVOLVE” There are bands that tour and then there are bands like Eye Empire. In a 3-year period, this band has done over 800 shows and appear to have no signs of slowing down. Recently, the band released “Evolve”, a 12 song CD full of hard rocking sounds from fist pumping metal to acoustic driven hard rock. “Evolve” takes off where 2012’s “Impact” stopped. In the words of vocalist Donald Carpenter, “Impact was a work in progress”. Don and the rest of Eye Empire, Corey Lowery, B.C. Kochmit and Ryan Bennett are in the middle of a tour in support of their new CD and we spoke to him about the new record, touring and his time in the military.
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We started by talking about the new release “Evolve” and I explained to Don what I liked in the diversity of the music on this release. From the heavy track like “One Day” and “The War Isn’t Over Yet”, to melodic tracks like “Beyond The Stars”, the moody haunting sounds of “The Man I Am” and the stripped down ballad in “I Don’t Want To Leave”. I asked about what went into the preparation and getting to the finished product. “With this new record, we had to walk that fine line from what we did with Impact but we had to maintain a cohesiveness to the overall appeal of the music”. States Carpenter “It comes down to lyrical context and the story and topics that we as a band try to discuss. Something that I as a vocalist took very personally. It all came together in this record. It’s very honest. At some points it’s brutally honest. I think that’s the common thread overall. It’s very connected to this music and the passion that comes through.
Continuing with the music, we discuss the song “The War Isn’t Over Yet”, which is a song about being in the military. Don prior to his days in Eye Empire and as vocalist for Submersed was in the military and I asked him about those experiences. “I was in from 97 to 2000. I got out about a year and a half before 9/11. I had a different experience. I served but the service that these men and women do today is a contrast from what I did. But I had the experience of being in the shoes of what these people prepare for”. Our conversation shifted to touring and I was amazed that this band had played well over 800 shows in a three year period and I asked how as a band, were they able to maintain staying out for such a long stretch of time? Don states that “As an independent band, the business is going through some changes and we knew we needed to take an old school mentality. We knew we would need to play 5-6 shows a week and be away from our friends, our family, our kids. Things that kind that help you balance life out. We question ourselves if we were going to still be standing. But we are here and we have this new record out and it helps us regain focus. It interjects some new energy and we are stronger than ever”. I followed up by asking that if they felt by not taking a break, if there was any fear of missing an opportunity? Don said “It’s a lot of politics that goes on. You need to find solid roots. We need to build this the old fashioned way. We cut to the core and it’s been working for us. We have our approach and that’s what we stick to”. As we got back into the music, I told Don how refreshing it was to hear a track like “I Don’t Want To Leave”. In that after all the heavy songs, that “Evolve” closes with a light track that really stands out. So I asked how the song came about. “It’s exposed” stated Carpenter. “The topic and the content of the song carries more weight than the actual heaviness of the song. It’s a ballad in the style of “Outside” by Aaron Lewis of Staind (who is a friend of the band). It’s a tribute as family men and the sacrifice that our families have to put into this dream. We were in the writing process and a lot of emotions were coming out. In the middle of writing heavier songs like “The War Isn’t Over Yet” and “The Main I Am”, I just got caught with this feeling of leaving my family and this experience. All these things that tear into your inner being. Regardless of your musical taste it cuts to the core of the human condition. We want our music to by a dynamic experience. We want our songs to pull everyone together. Eye Empire is wrapping up a Fall tour, but is working on some opportunities of some tours in 2014. “We got to keep pressing” states Carpenter. “We want to stay ahead of the game. We have a new record with a lot of ears to hear”. - Jim Santora
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REVIEWS
KORN - THE PARADIGM SHIFT Let's face it, the 1994 through 1996 era of KoRn is dead and gone. There is no reason to sit and beat a dead horse, so let's just move on shall we? The 2013 era of KoRn has brought back some hope for the band with their brand new album, "The Paradigm Shift", which sees the triumphant return of co-founding guitarist Brian "Head" Welch. So wipe away your sad tears of the past and throw your devil horns into the future! "The Paradigm Shift" sees KoRn evolving their sound yet again, but in a much more satisfying way, according to these ears. It is void of the desperate attempt, as heard on their 2010 album, "KoRn 3: Remember Who You Are", to rekindle the rough sound of the original self-titled classic we all know and love. It is also back to a more heavy rock sound that their 2011 album, "The Path of Totality", seemed to push away. For those of you who liked the dub-step don't worry though, there are still little sprinkles of the electronics here, as heard on their lead single "Never, Never". For those who have missed that heavy guitar sound for the last 10 years, guess what...IT IS BACK! The opening track, "Prey For Me", is nothing short of a, "OH HELL YEAH! I want to mosh and break stuff!" kind of moment. At least that is what I was thinking! The album just becomes a lot heavier, and dare I say it, more mature, as they take your ear drums for a groovy ride through the albums 11 songs. "Love and Meth" is another song that just makes you praise the music Gods that KoRn seems to be back, and kicking some ass again! I will say that I think this album is a very special one indeed, not just because Head is back, but this seems to be a very good direction for KoRn to be heading. No pun intended...or was it? Vocalist, Jonathan Davis, seems to be in top form here, clearly enjoying what his band is creating nowadays. You can feel it with the rest of the band as well, that the missing spark is back! The band sounds whole again, not like they are just trying things to see what sticks, they sound like KoRn again, plain and simple! So if you are just going to sit and say that KoRn is dead, then go ahead and say it. Live in the past and don't move on with the rest of us! We can enjoy "The Paradigm Shift", and any future albums from them without you! So keep crying! - Josh Mohr
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REVIEWS American Head Charge Shoot (EP) What else is there to say about Minnesota's own, American Head Charge? They have seen many struggles within the band, and many more in their own personal lives. Between addictions that seemed uncontrollable, having to deal with the death of one of their own, Bryan Ottoson, while on tour, and making what seemed like a comeback after his death, only to disappear again. This band has seen its fair share of tension, despair, hopelessness and controversy. Yet they made it through and are back with a vengeance! Upon their return, they have donned a brand new outlook and a new sense of hope. Which to me, sounds very promising. In mid 2013, they came at us with a new weapon that went straight for the jugular, and won. 4 brand new songs, plus a cover of “Rock n Roll Ni***r”, blasted through the ears of those eagerly awaiting a massive assault, and blasted through my ears those songs did! I regret nothing! The EP, “Shoot”, gives you exactly what you have been waiting for from these hardened Minnesotans. From the opening track, “Writhe”, right to the last track, “Sand” (which is before the cover song), you cannot help but feel giddy inside, and maybe a little warm. Vocalist Cameron Heacock gives the best performance I have heard from the band since their monster of a debut album, 2001's “The War Of Art”. Although the production on “Shoot” is not as polished as it was on “The War Of Art”, it manages to hit you even harder, which is a great thing! AHC prove on this independent release that you don't need the big wigs to make something magical, or down right diabolical. The raw style that has been brought forth on “Shoot” is exactly what this band needed to let us know they are back and ready to take fire. There is never a dull moment with this release. Never. Vocalist Cameron soars above the rest with his amazing god-like voice, while the bass is roaring through as raw as ever, along with the angelic guitar riffs. Drummer Chris Emery stomps out your pulse and brings you further into the madness, along with the good old piano and electronic talents reminiscent of AHC's debut album. Whether you have heard of American Head Charge or not, “Shoot” is a must have for anyone who is a fan of Hard Rock/ Metal. This is a true return to form! Not some sleazy, lazy, poorly written cash in that we have seen in the past. The only thing I have to complain about is that it simply is not long enough! That is okay though, anyone who knows when a band has seen their fair share of bad things, knows it is best to take things a little slower, to help make sure the pieces fall where they need to. AHC is a band that has a very bright future, again. Not too many bands get that. The “Shoot” EP has both of my thumbs way up, with a very high level of respect for these guys. They have prevailed. - Josh Mohr
77 Maximum Rock N Roll AC/DC is probably one of the most recognizable sounding bands in rock. Their straight up hard rocking style over the years has been copied (or attempted) by many artists ranging from Dirty Looks and Kix to Airbourne. Sometimes it’s on the money and other times it’s hit or miss. Then there is a band like 77, who seem to have studied at the school of Angus Young where you learn one lesson, at that is to rock like no one else. 77 is a hard rocking band from Spain. In reading their info regarding their third release “Maximum Rock N Roll”, it was noted that they sounded like Bon Scott era AC/DC. I must say at first listen and if your not paying a lot of attention, you will believe that you are hearing some unreleased Bon and the boys from down under. However, besides the definite AC/DC vibes throughout this CD, this band is so much more and have put together a disc that is all the things that make great rock n roll. One of the tracks that clearly sticks out is “Down and Dirty”. This track best demonstrates the comparisons to AC/ DC. Lead vocalist Armand Valeta has the Bon Scott sound to perfection. A very tight sounding track featuring some awesome grooving guitars from Armand and his lead guitarist brother LG Valeta. The song reminds me a little of “Touch Too Much” from AC/DC’s classic “Highway To Hell” and for all the right reasons. Other tracks like “Stay Away From Water” and “Don’t You Scream” are all cut from the same path and will make it hard to stop bobbing your head, stomping your feet or putting your foot down on the pedal. Then it starts to hit you when you think you have found an AC/DC clone that the band shows some other elements of their high energy straight up rock machine. The title track shows elements of early Slade in this hard rocking number that will have people quickly getting into the groove. Other tracks show off a early Aerosmith vibe “Jazz It Up” and other tracks throughout show styling's of the Beatles and Stones. Then there is “16 Year Old King” which seems to combine the classic mid70’s sounds of AC/DC, Kiss, Cheap Trick and a hint of April Wine. At the end of these tracks, you will not walk away bored. You will only walk away wanting more. 77 is one band where
being compared to a hard rock legend is a good thing. - Jim Santora
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REVIEWS Rush: The Studio Albums 1989-2007 Rush’s newest box set “The Studio Albums 1989-2007” could have been your one stop shop for all of the bands Atlantic Era Studio Albums. Unfortunately, unless you’re a die hard Rush fan, there really is no point to buying this box set. The case itself is promising, though maybe not as impressive as the “Sector” box sets (containing the Mercury Era albums), it is a nice presentation, with small displays of the cover from each of the seven Atlantic studio albums. On the inside is a book with all of the lyrics printed from the albums, and each disc is housed in a very cheaply done cardboard sleeve. Each of these sleeves has the album artwork on the front, and the back art printed on the back. For artwork, that is it. As any Rush fan knows, the band is known for some pretty nice visuals included with their albums, but all of that visually stunning artwork is not present in this set. There are no illustrations, and none of Hugh Syme’s beautiful paintings to accompany each album. There are no band photos either. Not one single picture of any of the three members from the band. And even stranger is the omission of the album production credits or band notes. In fact, if it were not for the back cover of “Feedback”, one would not even know who the members of this band were, as any inclusion of that information has been cut from this set. Musically, the discs sound great. “Presto” and “Roll the Bones”, which sounded thin previously, were re-mastered in 2004, and an upgrade to these mixes are what’s included here. Also included is the phenomenal remix of the “Vapor Trails” album, which is a huge upgrade to the original (almost a new album altogether), but this disc is available as a stand alone purchase (and included all of the original artwork, and is the better purchase). Now, it’s not likely that any casual listener will be picking up this box set, but if you want to dig into the latter Rush discography, I would recommend just picking up the stand alone discs, and skipping this collection, as Rush have always been a very visual band, and there is no evidence of that here. Overall, this set is a huge let down, especially when comparing it to the beautifully put together “Sector” box sets. - Rob Mallory
Stryper No New Hell To Pay It was 1985 when I first heard of Stryper. The song was “Loud N Clear” and was part of a compilation. I didn’t know what Christian Rock or Christian Metal was all about but I did know that Stryper was an outstanding band. They could be a heavy hitting band one minute and then hit you emotionally with a power ballad. Of course they had their critics who called them “Styx in bee costumes”, but I remember them as the Yellow and Black Attack. In 2012, I saw them perform at the M3 Festival and in my opinion, were the best band at the event. While other bands from the 80’s are featuring one member of the original band and trying to be relevant, Stryper is still in it’s original form and still bringing it to those that want to listen. “No More Hell To Pay” comes almost 30 years after they first came out of the glam metal scene and they still sound as fresh and heavy as they did back then. At the top of his game is vocalist Michael Sweet, whose voice does not appear to have lost much in the past 30+ years. Behind him is a powerful rhythm section of drummer Robert Sweet and bassist Tim Gaines who keep things tight throughout. Guitarist Oz Fox is a very underrated guitarist and he shows off his skills throughout the twelve tracks. One of the main standout songs on this disc is the title track. It leads off with a strong heavy rythms and Fox’s guitars setting the tone. Then comes Michael Sweets vocals, complete with some signature highs and as always, the trademark Stryper harmonies. Other tracks that stand out are the fast paced “Te Amo”, the heavy grooves of “Water Into Wine” and the opening track “Revelation” displaying more of Fox’s amazing guitar work. Don’t call this a comeback record because Stryper has never really gone away. “No More Hell To Pay” is brilliant and stands up to anything in their catalogue. One of my favorite CD’s to come out here at the end of 2013 hands down. - Jim Santora
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REVIEWS Andy John Bradford’s Ocean 5 Progressive Rock is a genre of music that is split into myriad different sub-genres. Each sub-genre is both alike, and different from every other genre (if that makes any sense at all), but one I haven’t heard a lot of is Progressive-Folk, and Andy John Bradford’s Ocean 5 is just that. And their debut album, “Return To Mingulay” is the best example of the sub-genre that I have ever heard. What the band have created here is easily some of the best music I have ever had the privilege of listening to. The vocals and the music have been written so well, and both compliment each other so beautifully, that I would be surprised if this album didn’t get all of the attention that it so rightly deserves. The album opener, “The Mingulay Boatsong” is a very beautiful song, both musically and vocally, but it’s the guitar solo that really adds an amazing layer of depth to the track. The way it seems to blend so seamlessly with the rest of the music makes this song a favorite of mine. The rest of the disc is just as good as the opening track, and really has some brilliant moments of music within its grooves. From the slightly heavier feel of “The Whitby Smugglers Song”, “Dancing With the Rhythm of the Shore”, and “Empty Hands”, the beautiful “Sails off the Bay”, and album closer “Fly Away”, and the more upbeat “6000 Friends” (featuring the vocals of Lorelei McBroom of Pink Floyd fame), and a song that, to me feels like it would go over very well with fans of Frank Zappa, “Dancing With the Rhythm of the Shore”, this band proves that they are true masters at their craft, and amazing songwriters. “Return To Mingulay” is a definite contender for album of the year in my eyes. This album is perfect for fans of folk, progressive rock, and anybody who loves a well crafted musical work of art. There is not a dull moment on this entire disc. And also, not to be missed, is the phenomenal artwork by the amazing Sonia Mota. The graphics are so incredible and fit the mood of the album just perfectly. I would be very surprised if I didn’t include this album in my top ten of 2013. Rob Mallory
The Flower Kings Desolation Rose When The Flower Kings released “Banks of Eden” in June of 2012, fans rejoiced, the long wait was over. It had been nearly five years since their previous release, “The Sum of No Evil” had been released. So when the band announced that the would be releasing their newest album in October of 2013, as a huge TFK fan, I was elated. So happy that I didn’t have to wait another few years to hear some new music from one of my favorites in the Progressive Rock genre. And as always with this band, I was not disappointed by what they had to offer this time around. “Desolation Rose”, released on October 28th of 2013 is everything that fans of the mighty Flower Kings have come to expect from them, enchanting melodies, ethereal music passages, beautiful guitar playing, and the perfect vocal harmonizing that we have all come to know and love. As with the previous few albums, the album kicks off with the big epic piece, the nearly fourteen minute “Tower One”, a song that is destined to be a TFK classic. With fantastic music, and an incredible vocal performance, it’s no wonder the band chose this song to kick off their twelfth studio album. And the good music doesn’t stop there, as the band expertly tear through another nine tracks of pure proggy goodness. From the crunchy rock of “Sleeping Bones”, to the beautiful prog melodies and groove of the title track, the diversity of “The Resurrected Judas”, the very dark and ballsy duo of “Dark Fascist Skies”, and “White Tuxedos” and of course the beautifully majestic songs “Blood of Eden”, and disc closer “Silent Graveyards”, it’s evident that releasing an album so close to the release of the previous posed no problem for these seasoned prog geniuses. When you stack this album up against the other albums in The Flower Kings discography, I find that it fits very well in their amazingly impressive body of work. This album has the same feel of their previous discs, while being something completely new at the same time. I would say that this album will go down just as well as any album that this talented progressive rock outfit has ever recorded. Essential Prog for 2013.—Rob Mallory
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REVIEWS Close Your Eyes Line In The Sand “Line In The Sand” is the 3rd release from Close Your Eyes and first with new vocalist Sam Ryder. When a band brings in a new singer, there are always people that love or hate the move because of what the “new” sound is as opposed to what they consider “real”. History brings us back to several bands that have made the move from Van Halen to Hollywood Undead and the list goes on. Close Your Eyes can slam the door on those who criticize the change as Ryder clearly does an excellent job on this release. In fact, CYE really stands out with their brand of post-hardcore. They are heavy and loud one minute, then totally melodic the next. At the same time, everything works and never sounds forced. An example of this is “Burdened By Hope”, which sees the band going full throttle hardcore, complete with screaming chant style vocals which is sure to break out a group of moshers in the pit. Other tracks that stand out in the heavier tracks include “Line In The Sand” (which includes cleaner style vocals), “No Borders”, “Sleeping Giant” and “The End”. However, it’s the more melodic side of CYE that stands out on “Line”. The song “Frame And Glass” is one of the best songs I have heard this year. Complete with standout vocals from Ryder, clean guitars to begin the song and a perfect combination of melodic rock and hardcore. Other songs on this end of the spectrum include “My Way Home” (featuring more clean guitars and stellar harmonies), “Kings Of John Payne” and “Trends and Phases”. Musically, the band fires off on all cylinders as guitarists Brett Callaway and Andrew Rodriguez lay down some solid playing. At the same time bassist Sonny Vega and Jordan Hatfield hold down the bottom end. It’s a very tight sounding disc and every piece of this puzzle fits. In this time in music where musical artists all start to sound the same and you’re not sure when one band starts and another finishes. It’s refreshing to have a band like Close Your Eyes that can be aggressive and melodic, and maintains the course throughout. - Jim Santora
Mad Hatter’s Den Welcome To The Den For those that remember what “old school” heavy metal sounded like, one has to go back to the 70’s and 80’s, where bands had a strange brew of guitar harmonies, organs and vocalists that could sing high vocals. Somewhere in Power and Progressive metal is where these bands lived and have stayed in their own pocket of the world with a loyal cult following. Enter into the realm Mad Hatter’s Den, whose website states they are inspired by everything between heavy metal anthems and old-school rock. Their latest release “Welcome To The Den” encompasses all of what we have mentioned and then some. The title track is a fast paced number and has some great guitar work from Jaakko Hanninen and Kari Korjonen. Keyboardist Petja Puumalainen also stands out. In Mad Hatter’s Den, keyboards are in the forefront like a third guitarist and not just a backing piece for effect only. Vocalist Taage Laiho has a big voice and can carry a song. Other songs that stand out are the nearly 8 minute “Sinister Monolouge” (majority of the songs are in the 5 minute plus category), while the three and a half minute track “Blind Leading The Blind” is a melodic and powerful track. All ten tracks on “Welcome To The Den” pack a punch. At the end of listening, I couldn’t help think that this band from Finland might be a birth child of Deep Purple, Yes, Dream Theatre and Yngwie Malmsteen with a sprinkle of Judas Priest for good measure. It’s indeed possible. - Jim Santora
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REVIEWS Dream Theater Live at Luna Park
The Progressive Metal band Dream Theater have no shortage of live albums. Through the years they have released a string of them, including official releases, and official bootleg albums. So when they release another live album it generally has to be quite a bit different than the previous one. The new live Dream Theater album, “Live At Luna Park”, is completely unlike any of the other live albums for many reasons, but the biggest one is that a new man sits behind the massive drum kit this time around. Original drummer Mike Portnoy, who stepped down from his throne in late 2010, was replaced by drummer extraordinaire Mike Mangini (who has worked with Extreme, and Steve Vai among others). And with their newest studio album (2011's “A Dramatic Turn of Events”), the band took the stage with new fire, and to the excitement of the fans. Recorded over two nights at Luna Park Stadium in Buenos Aires, this concert is a visit to the past, and a celebration of the new material, and everything goes together beautifully. Throughout the three disc set, we are treated to the entire new album at one point or another, and a healthy dose of some classic Dream Theater songs, and some of the newer material of recent years. And through it all, Mike Mangini does an amazing job powering through Portnoy's masterfully created drum licks. The show kicks off with the brand new “Bridges In the Sky”, an eleven minute prog rock epic, followed directly by “6:00” from the bands “Awake” album, and the energy doesn't let up until the second song from “Awake” (“The Silent Man”) shows up several songs later. The entire band are on fire as they tear through so much amazing material, that a DT fan quickly forgets about the absence of Mike Portnoy. Most of the night is taken up by the more high energy tunes from the band. Songs like “The Dark Eternal Night”, “The Root of All Evil”, “A Fortune In Lies”, the 1-2 punch of “War Inside My Head”, and “The Test That Stumped Them All”, and the bands big “hit”, “Pull Me Under”, show that this band can bring the metal. There are some of their more delicate songs in evidence as well, with the aforementioned “The Silent Man”, new songs “Beneath the Surface”, and “Far From Heaven”, the always magical “The Spirit Carries On”, and the brief, but poignant “Wait For Sleep”. It would seem that there is something for all the bands fans on this beautifully put together live set. I'm one of those people that feel like bands should release a live album every new tour. I feel that if a fan thinks they are milking them for money, they should just option not to buy the album, so that the rest of us can get our live fix. Unfortunately Dream Theater are not a band that put out a live album from each new album cycle, but if their live discs keep being in the caliber as this one, I'll keep picking them up. There is nothing better than putting on some headphones and spend some times with new versions of the songs that you know and love. - Rob Mallory
Flying Colors Live In Europe
With only one studio album under their belts, Flying Colors made the odd choice of releasing a live album. But, was it really an odd choice? This super group, made up of Neal Morse (ex Spock's Beard), Mike Portnoy (ex Dream Theater), Steve Morse (Deep Purple), Casey McPherson (Alpha Rev), and Dave LaRue (Dixie Dregs), is such a musical powerhouse, and their live set so diverse, that it seems as if the fans wanted a live disc, and the band have delivered. What we have here, spanning the duration of two discs, is the entire debut album, which was released in 2012 on Mascot Records. We're also treated to some cover tunes from the band members past discography. “Can't Find A Way” (an original from Casey), “Odyssey” (the Dixie Dregs classic), “Repentance” (Dream Theater), and “June” (Spock's Beard) all spice up the set list beautifully. The songs taking on something of a new life in this setting. Each are a perfect addition to the set. Also included is a cover of the Leonard Cohen original, “Hallelujah”, and Casey sounds incredible vocally on this one. So with all of these additions, the bands original material is supplemented very nicely. Now, with the Flying Colors originals, the band really shine. These songs are so perfectly written, and in a live setting they really get the chance to shine. The entire group tears through these songs with all of the passion and technical prowess of a band that have been together for a decade. The tunes breathe new life and induce several goosebumps moments, like set opener “Blue Ocean”, the melodic and powerful “The Storm”, the beautiful “Fool In My Heart” (with Portnoy on vocals!), and the truly epic piece “Infinite Fire”. This is an album that would go well in any rock lovers collection. The band are currently working on the follow up to the debut album, so all is quiet on the Flying Colors camp right now, but with an amazing live set like this to satisfy our listening pleasure, the wait will be less hard. This is just a great set, and one of the most satisfying live experiences that I've had this year. - Rob Mallory
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REVIEWS Decypher Decypher
Long Island’s Decypher latest release has great elements of the hard rock 90’s, yet still manage to keep the sound modern in today’s world. Beginning with the first track “Father”. It’s a high energy number that’s gets this CD going. From the vocals of Mike D’Ambra setting the tone, combined with the guitar work of Tim Anastasio, bassist Leo Sabatino and drummer Donn Parent, this is a cohesive unit that should be one to watch for some time. Other tracks like “One Last Day” have a Candlebox style feel. However, don’t be calling Decypher a clone. This is a track that has touches of the 90’s only as Decypher has a style all their own and they keep things very powerful and balanced. The track “Walk Away” has a great build up to start the song and then picks up steam. A song that shows some aggression, yet keep the strong melodic qualities that this band shows throughout the 4 tracks on this EP. There is no mistaking that there is a truly unique sound running through the blood of Decypher. This release is another winner in 2013 and hopefully one that will put these “Strong Islanders” on the map. - Jim Santora
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Loud Releases Band A Perfect Circle Fatal Fusion Ghost B.C. Rush Apocalyptica Five Finger Death Punch Saxon Shamall Tad Morose A Perfect Circle Clapton, Eric Soundgarden Black Sabbath Leaves' Eyes Flaming Lips, the AzaAello Benedictum Jellyfish Rhapsody of Fire Full Devil Jacket Royal Hunt Derogatory Evergreen Terrace Honour Crest Nightwish Kauan Iced Earth Run After To Liverani, Daniele Drivin N Cryin Switchfoot Lanterns On the Lake Mogwai LVCIFYRE Oldfield, Mike TransAtlantic Of Mice & Men
Album Three Sixty The Ancient Tale If You Have A Ghost Clockwork Angels Tour - Live Wagner Reloaded: Live In Leipzig The Wrong Side of Heaven and the Righteous Side of Hell, Vol. 2 Unplugged And Strung Up Turn Off Revenant A Perfect Circle Live: Featuring Stone and Echo Give Me Strength: The '74/'75 Recordings Screaming Life / Fopp (EP - Reissue) Black Sabbath: Live‌Gathered In Their Masses Symphonies of the Night Peace Sword (EP) MegaDream Obey Radio Jellyfish Dark Wings of Steel TBA A Life To Die For Above All Dead Horses Spilled Ink Showtime, Storytime Pirut Plagues Of Babylon Run After To/Gjinn and Djinn Fantasia Songs For The Turntable Fading West Until the Colours Run Rave Tapes Svn Eater Man On the Rocks Kaleidoscope TBA
Release 11/18/2013 11/18/2013 11/18/2013 11/18/2013 11/19/2013 11/19/2013 11/19/2013 11/20/2013 11/20/2013 11/25/2013 11/25/2013 11/25/2013 11/26/2013 11/26/2013 11/29/2013 12/3/2013 12/3/2013 12/3/2013 12/3/2013 12/3/2013 12/3/2013 12/6/2013 12/10/2013 12/10/2013 12/10/2013 12/15/2013 1/7/2014 1/7/2014 1/10/2014 1/14/2014 1/14/2014 1/14/2014 1/20/2014 1/21/2014 1/27/2014 1/27/2014 1/28/2014
If you are in a band and want your release listed in our next issue, please e-mail contact@loudnezz.com with band name, album title and release date
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Top 20 CD’s
Loud Chart 1
Trivium
Vengeance Falls
11 Edge of Paradise
Perfect Shade of Black
2
Korn
The Paradigm Shift
12 Promethium
Origins
3
Stone Sour
House of Gold & Bones Pt 2
13 Trouble
The Distortion Field
4
Dream Theater
Dream Theatre
14 Neal Morse
Momentum Live
5
Coheed & Cambria
The Afterman: Descension
15 Sinister Realm
World of Evil
6
Close Your Eyes
Line In The Sand
16 Spock’s Beard
Brief Nocturnes & Dreamless Sleep
7
Olivia
Raise The Curtain
17 Serosia
Variables
8
Avenged Sevenfold
Hail To The King
18 Ravenous Feast
Listen To Me
9
Bobaflex
Charlatan’s Web
19 Flying Colors
Live In Europe
Mask of Lies
20 To The Pain
To The Pain
10 Mindmaze
The LOUD CHART is a list compiled by staff, internet radio DJ’s/show hosts and readers feedback. If you would like to submit for a future issue, send us your Top 5 CD’s/downloads your listening to right now and e-mail contact@loudnezz.com right now
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