W
E! WELCOM
e made it! Six issues in one year! 2015 has certainly been about finding our feet, when you look through each issue you can notice some huge changes and improvements as we go along - that’s the magic of a zine. If we were in the 70s or 80s we would be on a typewriter cutting and sticking paper to create a zine in our image. I like to think RAMzine is the modern version of a zine. We always had our core values, and that is ‘To Showcase the New, and Celebrate the Old’, however what we have learnt this year is we are also about variety. RAMzine is made up of a dedicated group of music lovers, there is no band too big or too small in our eyes - and we will continue to cover as much as time will allow. That being said we would love to hear from readers, if you find a band that you believe should be in our zine, you are always welcome to recommend them. Email me on: vicky@ramzine.co.uk. See you next year!
-Victoria Purcell
Contents Featured 12 HARD ROCK HELL
We went to sunny Wales, a lovely place called Hav Fan Y Mor, to bear witness to some excllent guitar solos.
INTRODUCING 08 ALTERED SKY
We caught up with Jake Wiffen at HRH!
Interview 10 DEAD CITY RUINS
We caught up with Jake Wiffen at HRH!
04 2015 IN PHOTOS
We take a look back at ‘AntiChrist Superstar’ in one of two RAMzine Classics Reviews, in this issue!
2015!
07 RAMZINE CLASSIC
We take a look back at classic Nirvana album ‘Nevermind’.
17 Reviews -Dark Sky Park - Follow Me -Sons Of Texas - Baptized In The Rio Grande -Huron - The Dead Stay Dead -Jack Frost - Mélaina Cholé -Lady Jane’s Revenge - 1554 -The Shaper - Reckless Youth -Delayed Departure - Consequences -More Than Most - Impossible Is Temporary -Guardian - Revolution -HAG - Fear Of A Man -The Bloody Nerve - Taste -1968 - 1968 -Backyard Babies - At O2 ABC, Glasgow -Sonic Medusa - The Sunset Soundhouse Tapes
Contributors
Lisa Billingha m!
3
RAMzine Photograher -Photo of Biff Byford of Saxon on the front cover.
&
Cover design: Ryan Stanikk www.ryanstanikk.co.uk RAMzine Classic by Stuart Iversen.
Marcus Wh eeler! RAMzine Music Journalist -Hard Rock Hell Review
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Reviews by: Jules Burnan, Paul H Birch, Pagan Hel, Rich Broom, Milly Youngman, Sean Rafferty, Ashley Crowson, Stuart Iversen.
Neale McGee ver! RAMzine Deputy Editor -Introducing Altered Sky
5 1 20
January
s o t o h P n I March
StOp, sToP ! a t HRH A OR
Febuary Sna kech a rmer @ Th e Robin 2
be Anna Ph o e HRH Pro g!
Th e Skys at HRH Pro g!
Tigert ailz ! a t HRH A OR
De vilmen t at Ha mmerfest !
Feed Th e Rh ino in Ma nch est er!
o wa rd C A f o Hea rt edo wn! k a T t a
April
4
A fflic tion Th e Ami t y in Bri st o l!
36 Crazyfists at Th e Marble Factory, Bristol!
Bona fide at th e Slade Rooms!
Ora nge Goblin at Ha mmerfest ! Sci Fi Weekend er!
Th e Loved and ;L ost at Breaking Ba nds!
Black Sta t e Highwa y at Brea king Bands!
May
Bad Po llyanna at Da mes of Da rkn ess!
n at EnkElina tio ess! a rk n Da mes o f D
Dragon force!
June Th e Beach Boys – Barcla ycard Arena, Birmingham
Download Festi val!
Coal Chamb er at Manch est er Ri tz!
We Are Harlo t at O2 Isling ton, London!
July
Kobra And Th e L ondon s Bosto L o tus a t n Music Room!
Th e Dead XIII, Th e Globe, Newca stle!
Beh emo th at Me talDays!
Black Label Socie ty at Me talDays!
Bu t ch er Babies!
E vil Scarecrow!
Roadho g, at Ch eshire Ch eese, Frodsha m! A rch En emy a t Me ta lDa ys!
Alt ered Sky, at Th e Garage in London Anvil at Me talDays!
Dream Th eat er at Me talDays!
Suicid e Silence a t Me ta lDa ys!
August
y Bra wler s, a t Th e Bo w er An ti-Flag, a t Th e Di st ric t, Reading! In t er vie wing La wnmow er ! Bo w ery Di st ric t, Reading De th a t Bloodsto ck!
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Me ta llica a t Reading Festi va l!!
Tri vium a t Bloodsto ck!
Wi th in Tempt a tion a t Bloodsto ck!
Rob Zombi e a t Bloodsto ck!
Th e Qemists a t Brea ko ut Festi va l!
See th ing Akira at Brea kou t Festi va l!
September
Zoa x a t Bu tserfest ! Th e Gra veltones, KrushFest, Grea t Ya rmou th !
Bulle tproo f Ro se a t HRH Highway to Hell VI! Alice Cooper in support of Mo tley Crue!
Fire a t H Cra shga t e Ro se a t HR High On esti va l! F Highway to Hell VI! Da mna tion
November Ea gles Of Dea th Me ta l, O2 Acad emy, Newca st le
October
t es a t A t Th e Ga ti va l! Fes Da mna tion
Megade th in Birmingha m!
Lamb of God in Birmingham!
Reel Big Fish in Manch est er!
Ch erie Currie Li ve at th e Under world in London!
Voodoo Six at L egends Of Rock!
Vin ta ge Trouble, O2 Forum, London!
To sela nd ck Hell! a t Ha rd Ro
Contributing Photographers: Aaron Cope, Adam Hemmings, Ashley Crowson, Benji Walker, Brian J Nicholson, Brian J Nicholson, Chris James Ryan, Jay Russell, Kris Olle, Lauren harris, Lisa Billingham, Marcus Wheeler, Mark Lloyd, Neil Mach, Rob Billingham, Sophie Colvin, Tom Martin, Toni Ross, Victoria Purcell.
Classics Review! I
f you look back on the last thirty years of music, no band has been more influential than Nirvana. Whether you love Biffy Clyro or Limp Bizkit, they have all benefitted from their influence and in particular, the influence of Nevermind. It didn’t just break the mould, it shattered it, rebuilt it and then broke it once again just for the fun of it. It made it possible for alternative bands of any genre to make their name in the music scene.
And yet it all started quite slowly. Entering the Billboard Charts in America at 144, Geffen Records expected to sell modest but strong numbers. Bleach had been a success but was by no means huge, and nothing hinted towards what was to happen next. ‘Smells Like Teen Spirit’ hit the world and suddenly Nirvana took off. The album was released in September and by January it had climbed to number one in the charts knocking Michael Jackson off of top spot. ‘Smells Like Teen Spirit’ and Nevermind became the soundtrack to teenage rebellion across the world. Of course, we now all know ‘… Teen Spirit’ like the back of our hands. It is played in every rock club in the world and feels about as rebellious as your dad’s old tie. However, if you go back and really listen to it you can understand why. That relentless riff, Kurt’s anguished wail and that feeling of purging emotion. It became a classic for a reason and somehow it is not even the best thing on the album.
Words bY Stuart Iversen Drawing by Irene
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It has the melancholy of ‘Come As You Are’, the disturbed unsettling mind of ‘Polly’ and the pissed off rebellion of ‘Territorial Pissings’ to compete with and that’s just the start. Nevermind may have passed from punk rock fury into the album that everyone owns, but it doesn’t hide the fact this is a raw and hungry release. Nirvana were one hell of a band and whether it’s Dave Grohl beating his drums like he found them in bed with his girlfriend or Kirt Novoselic’s consistently overlooked bass, this was a band on fire. Of course, it was to be short-lived. One brilliant album later Kurt Cobain took his life and Nirvana were consigned to the history books. His legacy was the rise of alternative rock, bands like Dave Grohl’s Foo Fighters and fellow Washington state alumni Pearl Jam were able to do what they did because of Nirvana and music began to change. On the other hand, bands like Limp Bizkit cover his songs in 2015 and evoke his name, despite the fact that the feminist dreamer that Cobain was would have hated everything that they stood for. He’s become the poster child that he never wanted to be and Nirvana are classed as classic rock. Yet much like with ‘… Teen Spirit’ if you go back and really listen you remember what made this album what it is. This isn’t the sound of corporate America but the sound of some pissed off kids who didn’t have a place in the world. The alternative music scene of 2015’s roots is in this album and without it who knows what we would be listening to today.
By Neale McGee ver
T
he past two or three years we have where I’d be without it”. been spoilt for choice when it comes it Although the ‘punk pop Abba’ tag sounds girl-power in the world of rock. Some of the ridiculous, they carry the same sort of pop biggest names at the moment - like PVRIS, sensibility as the aforementioned quarParamore, Tonight Alive, and Against The tet. Coming from a theatrical background Current - are all lead by a female vocalist. singer Ana recalls a lot of bands from her The thing is: all these bands are American youth as influences: “Strangely enough I’d (or Australian) so what happened to all the say Escape The Fate for me. Even though UK rock chicks? Look no further than GlasI have talked about a lot of video game gow to see the mixed-gender punk-pop music from series like Final Fantasy and powerhouse that is Altered Sky. Fronted the Sonic games in the past. We did start it by the multi-coloured haired Ana Nowothat way but we have sielska with drummer Amy Blair also profound a more mature viding backing vocals, towering axe-men sound. With our earRoss Archibald and Richard Passe on bass lier material there is and lead guitar respectively. a lot going on and Even though Altered Sky get compared to you might spot a lot other female-fronted rock bands, the Scotof anime or gaming tish four-piece feel they stand out in the influenced sounds. I crowd. Leading lady Ana commented: “We grew up listening to bands like Lost Prohave a different kind of live show, we put phets and You Me At Six, so it’s that kind of a lot of work in to playing gigs. I look up sound. I also used to listen to CKY as well to performers like Bruce Dickinson and Axl but I wouldn’t say we sound like them” Ana Rose - who OWN the stage. It’s all about the music, but all about the show as well”. Like continues “Like we said before, we sound the rock Gods a lot like bands from the who inspired early to mid ‘00s because the Scot- “ that’s what we grew up tish rockers, with. Back then there was you someParamore, No Doubt and times have that’s about it. So I like to “ to go back think we put our own spin -Ana Nowosielska before you on it” go forward. Their selfBassist Ross Archibald added “The thing is funded debut album we have been called… I don’t want to say ‘Without Wonderland’ was ‘retro’ but in the sense we have a sound released late November harking back to bands from the late 90s and has been receiving and early 00s. Some of the other [female some brilliant feedback: fronted] bands have more of a ‘modern’ “It’s been amazing so far” sound but a few reviews I’ve read recently says Ana “It’s great to have say we have that old school vibe. Which isn’t a bad thing – we grew up with those bands”. Ana says being in the music industry has been a life-time ambition: “It sounds like a cliché but it’s been in my blood for a long time. My parents were in theatre so there’s always been that influence in my life.” Says the Glaswegian Photo by Neil Mach front-woman “I don’t know
the album out there and for more-andmore people to hear it brilliant”. Like a lot of British bands nowadays, Altered Sky’s first LP was a labour of love funded from the band’s own pockets. Funding albums or projects via fans or means outside of labels seem to be the most popular these days. Take the example of Ashestoangels who are ‘DIY ‘til they die’ and Aiden - who even released an album for free on the b a c k of crowd-funding support. Even so, Altered Sky found it just as rewarding releasing it the ‘indie’ way: “I think Kickstarter Pledge Music “ and are great ideas, so many bands use it and they also fund things like video games through it. We were lucky enough to be able to afford to fund it ourselves. It’s something we anticipated from the start and we finally had enough to fund it. We think it was the best way”. Starting a band in Glasgow isn’t the worst idea ever as there’s so many venues and live music happening in the area – it’s safe to say you will be able to play live somewhere. “We played three gigs in the same venue one week. It was great because that gave us a lot
‘‘Glasgow has mire of a history in terms of all the legendary bands who have played at these venues
I look up to performers like Bruce Dickinson and Axl Rose - who OWN the stage
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of experience of playing live. There’s so many amazing venues there from King Tut’s to Barrowlands, as well as venues in Edinburgh like the Picture House which is sadly no longer there”. Ross added “Glasgow has more of a history in terms of all the legendary bands who have played at these venues. Plus so many amazing bands come out of Glasgow”. With bands like Twin Atlantic and Yashin emerging in the last half-decade, Scotland could be the place to watch for exciting new bands. Altered Sky have just finished their biggest ever UK headline tour playing places like Leeds, Basingstoke and Cheltenham for the first time. “It’s going to open doors for us. We now have ‘Without Wonderland’
out so if this doesn’t break us we can make another album and keep touring” said Ana. Like most bands, Altered Sky do like to explore when on tour “We had our first Taco Bell in Manchester, which was awesome. We ended up finding a really cool museum as well. This is something we couldn’t do in the past as a support band. If we have enough time we can now explore!” The journey is just as important as the destination for the four-piece and debates over whether Sonic Generations or FIFA will be played in the van are the only downsides of being on tour for Altered Sky. It’s likely we will see this band tour again soon enough. So what’s next for Altered Sky? “We do want to progress forward and our sound
still is different… but after Christmas we do have some big news for our fans” announces Ross “We have actually pencilled in a rough date to record album number two” Ana adds “The cycle begins again. Even before this came out we have been sitting on this for about a year so we kept writing more material in the meantime which will all be on our second album. This is just the beginning”.
sary, it starts off with ‘This War Is Mine’ - a popular brand of pop-punk energy and this is always an impressive feature. Within this style that they’ve established we witness a number of catchy hooks and certain sing-along vibe, particularly in the chorus for ‘Apple Tree.’ This song, amongst many of the tracks on this album are instantly recognisable and will go down a treat with fans, old and new. For a great display of melodic euphoria, be sure to give ‘Live For It’ and ‘Livewire’ a listen. On the flip side of the aforementioned energy - the solo piano and vocals that make up ‘Imagine Adventure’ really display the purity of Ana’s voice. Throughout this
album it bleeds emotion and seamlessly adapts to a range of different styles, laid out by a tight guitar and bass combo and thumping drum beats. A slow and delicate piano number is just the calm before the storm, because in penultimate track ‘Waves’ and album finale ‘White Witch’ we again hear a great pop-punk rhythm, catchy vocals and well crafted melodies. The above traits are ever present and they are amalgamated by a bunch who have started from the bottom, worked hard and kept things interesting. The result - a solid album and kick starter for lots of good things to come.
Check out what we thought of the album ‘Without Wonderland’ below. Check out a review of their latest tour online at www. RAMzine.co.uk
Altered Sky Without Wonderland Unsigned RAMzine have been very privileged to get an early look at this debut album by Altered Sky, which has now officially launched ahead of their upcoming road trip. With a real supercharged, energetic and emotive pop-punk infused catalogue - the nine date U.K tour is sure to be a belter. Following on from their previous EP releases ‘Without Wonderland’ has now been unleashed and is a big milestone for the up and coming rockers. Their album will bring great pride and a chance to put themselves on the map, beyond their existing listener base.
Th e spine that supports th eir sound is an emoti ve rock poetry that is clean & crisp! Upon listening to the 10-track release, it’s clear that they’ve done themselves justice and are ready to build on their already glistening reputation as a band to watch next year. So what are the puzzle pieces that come together to build a platform for this kind praise? Well, Altered Sky have allowed plenty of diversity within the album. The spine that supports their sound is an emotive rock poetry that is clean and crisp, but never strays too far from their rock roots. Lead singer Ana’s vocals are well balanced with melodic and brash instrumentals, which all-in-all are kept interesting all along the way. The album packs a punch where neces-
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By Sam Rohde
Dead City Ruins By Victoria Purcell
H
ard Rock Hell always supplies a range of bands that impress. Each year our ears get treated to something new, but always powerful. This year we came across Dead City Ruins, from Melbourne, Australia. Vicky (VP) caught up with vocalist Jake Wiffen in the colourful press room, just next to the Mash and Barrel pub on site at Hard Rock Hell. Jake: Very good, nice to meet you Vicky! VP: Nice to meet you too! I’m not going to lie, I’m feeling a bit worse for wear today. Jake: I think everyone “ is, it was a heavy night at HRH last night! VP: Yep, HRH will do that to you on the first night. Black Label Society were amazing last night. Jake: Yes! I have been driving for 2 days from Belgium so I took a rest, but the rest of the boys went out, they had many many beers, and said it was a great night. VP: It really was, I was very mesmerised by the king, Zakk Wylde. Jake: I really love Zakk Wylde’s acoustic stuff. VP: So, the first thing that I ever saw from
Dead City Ruins was a crowd fund video, from a few years ago. I quite liked it, as your personality really came through in it. It was quite funny! Jake: We had a good time doing that! VP: At that point you were un-signed, and since then you have signed to a label (Metalville Records). How did you find that signing to a label affected your band? Jake: Well, we have been touring Europe and the UK for five years. We had always booked everything ourselves, on the first couple of tours we were slipping into debt. Then when we signed with the label they hooked us up with better booking “ agents. We have been touring since March this year, so it’s been good to have the label to show us people that can get us better gigs, more money, all that kind of stuff. Which is important if you are going to be on tour for a long time.
It was a heavy night at HRH last night!
pocket, and nobody is giving you money for nothing. We would definitely do that again. It’s a really good way to cut out all the middle men, you got the fan paying the band, and then the band giving the fan what they want. VP: I suppose to be in a position to do that you need to already have a fan base there, and that comes with touring? Jake: Absolutely, there is no point in your best mates and your mum buying your record. I think the only way to do it is get out there and tour, tour, tour! Do everything you can to play in front of people, even if it’s just 3 people. As next time is could be six, and after that it could be more and more – which is what we have done for the last 5 years. VP: That’s quite a long time to be on the road. Have you played in the UK much? Jake: Yeah, we come to Europe every year. We go home, and then come back over hear a few times a year. This year we decided it’s too expensive to spend money on the flights to come over here, we usually come over for 12 weeks, so this year we came over for the whole year. We have just been pic“ king up every show, and every tour that we can play, it’s been a really good year. VP: Well, you must be well acclimatised to the rock and roll lifestyle by now? Jake: *Laughs* I have been doing it a long time, 17 years! So I’m pretty used to sleeping in a van and living off raw pasta.
I’m used to sleeping in a van and living off raw pasta.
VP: Now that you are “ signed, would you still use a crowd funding campaign? J a k e : I definitely would, I think that people have over used them for silly stuff, just asking for money. When we are at home we work six or seven days a week, to save up to come to Europe. Which is what you have to do, you can’t rely on pledges. I think in this day and age, with the lack of CD sales and stuff like that, a really good way to do it is sell your album before you make it. That way you use that money to make the album, you are not out of
VP: During the summer (at MetalDays) I was talking to Lips of Anvil about the tour lifestyle, and he actually said he doesn’t like being at home. Would you say you get addicted to the road and the lifestyle? Jake: Absolutely. We have toured with a lot of older bands, guys in their 50s and they are just like 21 year olds, because they never had to grow up. And so, when you do go home and you have to pay bills, and work, and real life stuff you just want to be out on the road again. VP: V I saw that you went on tour with Ugly Kid Joe, and you even have a cover of AC DCs ‘Rock N Roll Damnation’ featuring Whitfield Crane. Ugly Kid Joe have headlined Hard Rock Hell before, and they played an amazing performance of ‘God
Damn Devil’ , there happened to be some drink a lot, and everybody tells you yes, I stilt walkers dressed as a devil, who ended can see how people can quickly spiral out up on stage with them. A very memorable of control. You have to pull yourself and moment in HRH history. each other up every now and then. And Jake: They are awesome live! You know have a sober day. what I found out about that song? Rob VP: Do you have many sober days? Halford does the vocals on that track. Jake: We try. I’m pretty good because I’m a Vicky: Really? singer; I have to take care of my instrument. Jake: Yeah, he does that really high back up Guitarists are always the bloody worry. vocal in the chorus. When we supported VP: Oh yeah? those dudes back in Sydney back home. Jake: *jokingly* yep, in every band! We had done about 40 shows, and we VP: Do you find it hard to be healthy on the went back home, to do the Australian tour road? You are not able to prepare you own with them. We became really good mates meals etc… with Ugly Kid Joe, and Skid Row – we all Jake: Yeah it is hard. The drummer from Ugly hung out a lot. I said to Whit “do you mind Kid Joe is a young bloke, and every day he if I get up and do backing vocals because I was out doing push ups, sit ups, chin ups, have a stupid high voice”. He was like “yeah everything. You really do have to do that man get out there”, so at the Sydney show otherwise you fall apart really quick. I smashed out the high vocals, it was really I used to pack just a few t-shirts for tour and cool. that was about it. But now I find myself pacVP: The Halford part! That is really aweking vitamins, etc. If you get sick as a singer some. You have just been on tour with you are fucked, so you do have to take that Audrey Horne, how did that go? step and take care of yourself. Jake: It was amaI meet a lot of bands zing; those guys that have been touring “A lot of bands in the 80s a long time, and whilst are so nice, Audrey Horne and they do enjoy a drink, went from playing to 10 it’s not a constant party, Dead Lord. It was our first night otherwise you become people, to world tour, liner tour, which like Vince Neil, and you overnight sensations.’’ was undescrican’t even sing. bable! To be able VP: P: Motley Cure are to play a show, the perfect example get off stage, and get into the bus where of an overnight sensation. there is beer and pizza, and you get a bed! Jake: And everyone told them yes… You can just stay up and party, or go to They hey still believe they are awesome, but sleep, and when you wake up and you are they are not. already at the venue. We have been driving ourselves round for year. It was so awesome. I had VP: You didn’t go to their final tour to laugh at myself though, as went to some show somewhere, and it was towards the end of the tour so I had had quite a lot to drink. I had to go up to the tour manager and say “I’m really sorry, but can you please tell me where we are, because I don’t even know where the hell I am”.
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VP: I guess that’s part of being acclimatised to rock and roll lifestyle! You play in so many cities; it’s easy to forget where you are. Jake: Yeah, I can see how people could spiral out of control. A lot of bands in the 80s went from playing to 10 people, to world tour overnight sensations. When you do that at a young age, you
then? Jake: No, I loved their first couple of albums. VP: Who are your favourite bands? Jake: Sabbath, We saw them at Download 2012 it was an amazing show. We are really stoked to be at Hard Rock Hell with two of our favourite bands Saxon and Helloween, and Crowbot are now one of my favourite bands. Another band called King of The North, are always playing here, we are psyched to see them. They are really really good, they are a two piece. The drummer is Amazing! VP: What are your plans for the rest of the year? Jake: Fly home, then we start an Australian tour through to December and January, then we are straight in the studio recording album number 3. Then we will back at the end of summer next year. VP: There are certainly no signs of you guys slowing down anytime soon then!? Jake: Nope, never, even if we have to rob banks to pay for it, we will do it.
Helloween!
Hellbound Hearts!
Bigfoo t! Saxon!
12
Dead Ci ty Ruins!
UFO!
and sharing a few beers and stories, I headed off catch some music. TRUCKER DIABLO were in full swing by the time I stepped into the main stage area; I was struck by the ‘lounge’ atmosphere it looked and felt like a holiday park, except that the room was full of like-minded rockers and the people on the stage were actually talented. Ooh, burn. The crowd seemed tame at this stage, so I couldn’t help but feel - and I don’t mean to take away from the act - that they were merely a formality for Words by Marcus Wheeler what was about to Band Photos by Lisa & Rob Billingham follow; of course this was likely spurred on by the number of BLS waist jackets that I could see. I wouldn’t say the crowd were disengaged, but there was THURSDAY certainly a noticeable change in the air when After five hours, ha- Trucker Diablo pulled out a cover of Metallica’s ving driven through ‘Seek & Destroy’. fog, glorious sunshine, I headed out to check out the second stage and then into how- area. There were vast numbers of people milling wind and rain, we ling about in fancy dress - I’m told this is soarrived at Hafan Y Mor mething of a HRH Haven holiday park in tradition for the North Wales for the Thursday night. ninth instalment of There were some Hard Rock Hell. people on stilts Making our way three nurses with to pick up our provocatively short passes, we walked skirts and a caricathrough a large ture of Gene Simlounge bar filled with mons - and, separadenim and leather clad rockers of all ages par- tely, I came across taking in a light hearted quiz. We were greeted a group dressed as with a smile and presented with our passes and the greatest band on the key to our accommodation: a modern, fully earth, KISS, with Dee Snider of Twisted Sister fitted holiday caravan. In terms of overnight tagging along. After chatting with Dee for a stays, Hard Rock Hell is one of the most glamo- while, he hugged me, presumably out of pity, rous events on the rock and metal calendar. Did when I asked who he was supposed to be and I mention that you can get Papa John’s pizza then when I told him that I didn’t really know delivered? Yeah. Being my first time at Hard Twisted Sister. We went on to talk about KISS at Rock Hell, I was in awe of the venue; this espe- Download earlier this year and even Rammscially hit me moments after being handed a XL tein’s live performances. There was such a Bacon Double Cheeseburger - that’s right, they friendly atmosphere and I noticed that there is also have a Burger King onsite. definitely an ‘older’ demographic at HRH than HRH kicks off with a reduced bill on Thursday at other festivals I have been to. giving everyone a chance to arrive on day one I headed back to the main stage to find, ATTIin good time to catch the first act. After getting CA RAGE in full swing. Jonny Parr was delivesettled in the caravan, meeting our roommates ring a great vocal performance while the rest
Hard Rock Hell
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of the band mesmerised with their undulating hair. The band surprised me with a cheeky ‘Crazy Horses’ cover, an odd but surprisingly good choice! BLACK LABEL SOCIETY. Where to start?? From beginning to end, they delivered a crushingly impressive performance. The lighting and sound were as flawless as the band and crew’s professionalism in the face of the few technical hiccups they encountered. I had not seen a show so good in a long time. BLS demonstrated that you don’t need pyrotechnics at a headline slot just to leave people awestruck... A recorded medley of Zeppelin’s ‘Whole Lotta Love’ and Sabbath’s ‘War Pigs’ played out to introduce the band. From the start, the show was incredible; in the first song alone, Zakk’s imposing stature dominated the room as he ripped out a solo with his guitar behind his head. Zakk’s presence made the show, and no matter how many times he punched the air or pounded his chest, it never lost impact. During ‘Suicide Messiah’, one of the crew came on stage with a megaphone to add a nice touch to the track. I was glad to hear one of my personal favourites, ‘Stillborn’, which had such a huge sound. Not forgetting those in the background, it’s also worth mentioning that the lighting technician did a fantastic job to enhance the show. At the end of the performance, after brandishing his BLS waist jacket at the crowd, drumsticks, towels and a Welsh flag, were thrown into a grateful and buzzing audience. It was an awesome start to what was set to be an incredible weekend.
FRIDAY Heading over to the arena, the sound of rock echoed throughout the park as BIGFOOT opened up the day. I arrived as they were strumming their last chords to find that the second stage was much busier than I expected; judging from the atmosphere, they put on one heck of a show. During the switch, I walked around the merchandise area - something of an Aladdin’s treasure cave for metal-heads. The first stall I came across was full of belt buckles, leather wallets and tobacco pouches, but the thing that really stood out for me was the carved skulls (www.oceania-legends.com). I walked past a fantasy artwork stall by artist Rodney Matthews - the talent behind album covers for the likes of Asia, Thin Lizzy, Rick Wakeman and Nazareth. Dukes Of Bordello started their set as I continued to look around; I saw more studs than stars in the sky - if you were to name a body adornment, they probably sold it here; I saw CDs, vinyl records, clothing, spiky accessories and, of course, a wall of
New Rocks. As the stage comes into view, the source of DUKES OF BORDELLO’s booming sound becomes clear: the bassist is wielding the punkiest double bass I’ve ever seen; it makes one hell of an impact on their country punk style and makes for a great live sound. They had a great image: front man appeared to be something of a fusion between Kid Rock, Lemmy and Jack Sparrow and the drummer was a shaven headed, ginger bearded machine. They dropped a false start on one of their newer tracks but it was soon forgotten when they got rolling with ‘King Of The Road’. Meanwhile, over at the main stage, THIRTEEN STARS were in full swing; they are a great band to see live, displaying a cool confidence - even in the face of a guitar strap malfunction and tuning issues, the front man was unphased and the hiccups made no impact on the delivery of the music. ‘Circus Of Dreams’ was brilliant with its groove and swagger. The last track, ‘Soldier’, was aptly dedicated to Britain’s armed forces, a fantastic jam track with a great solo. One of the great things about HRH is the food options: if on a budget, there is the freedom to bring and prepare your own food, even if that is no more than a pot noodle. I headed back to the caravan for a gourmet meal - ok, a pot noodle and cup of tea - and then headed back out. I got to the second stage in time to get a good spot by the sound desk for SKÅNSKA MORD; not having heard of them, I checked them out (along with most other bands I’d not heard) beforehand using the magic of Spotify and thought they were fantastic, so I was surprised to see such a small crowd - there was none to speak of. They kicked off with a slap round the face, jumping straight in, and soon a crowd started to gather, still only a couple of hundred and much less than these seasoned, Swedish rockers deserved. After a couple of songs I headed over to the main stage just to see what Crowbot were up to. I was surprised at how busy it was for CROWBOT. The front man was striking in his white PVC dinner jacket, and I found myself captivated by the bassists technique. The band certainly put on a show, but I found myself preferring the material, intimacy and humble delivery of Skånska Mord’s set, so I headed back over to see out the rest of their set. I got there in time to catch a good few songs - the thing that really struck me, aside from the awesome music, is Jan Bengtsson’s voice: it was as if the room was too small to contain it, which is saying more about his voice than the room. As the last track closed up, Jan thanked the crowd and left the stage to leave the rest of the band to jam out the rest of the track, a move I thought was very effective, as I always feel a bit awkward for a vocalist that is left bouncing around the stage while the musi-
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Thirt een Stars!
Helli on Rising!
Fed era l Ch a rm! cians go off on one. I became an instant fan that day. I grabbed a pint of Hobgoblin from the bar at the side of the room between the switch over, then position myself at the front for Aussie hard rockers, DEAD CITY RUINS. The band displayed great energy and even a bit of choreography at certain times, which I think is all part of a high energy show. Vocalist Jake Wiffen, with fluid dexterity, hopped over the barrier to tour the crowd and then, just as effortlessly, jumped back onto the stage. I noticed the crowd, then chanting, was growing considerably and about 500 strong. Hungry again, I make my way through to the main stage to catch a few tracks of TOSELAND’s power grooves; again, I am struck by just how busy it feels - there is still room to move but it does make for a great atmosphere. Toseland appears to be having a great time on stage as I retreat towards Burger King for a magical Whopper. After eating, I went to catch STONE KINGS, who I’d picked out as ‘one to watch’, but was sadly disappointed; perhaps it was just an ‘off day’, but I felt that they were better recorded than live as they lacked energy and conviction onstage. I moved swiftly back to the main stage to check out SCORPION CHILD; in stark contrast, they were belting out their set with heaps of energy. I struggled to hear the keys through the mix, but wasn’t disappoin
ted when a keyboard solo landed. The crowd seemed to really be enjoying the set, one track that really stood out for me was ‘Kings Highway’ - probably due to the awesome bassline! Next up, HELLOWEEN gave a brilliant performance - I absolutely love watching bands that look as though they are happiest on stage. The band members all interacted with each other; there is something about musicians sharing microphones that makes the performance all the more fun. Andreas Deris gives Bruce Dickinson a run for his money; crushingly powerful vocals, a mad drum solo and ripping guitar solos made Helloween an absolute pleasure to watch. Headliners, UFO, sounded superb. Phil Mogg had an aura about him that emanated a love for the performance; he seemed very natural and at ease on the stage, and entirely free of pretence. I was impressed by the electroacoustic guitar that was brought on and off the stage on a pedestal to allow the guitarist to play while donning his electric guitar and get that steel-strung acoustic sound for certain sections. The atmosphere was incredible - the arena was packed out and the whole crowd were behind them, applauding and cheering after every song. The last band I caught was BLACK STATE HIGHWAY, whose lead lady treated us to an acoustic snippet in the press area as I was writing this. For a band starting their set at 23:45,
No Ho t Ash es!
sion, in the most positive way, was how do these guys make so much noise!? We learned that Danny Leo, on drums, had his appendix out only two weeks prior, yet was still pouring so much energy into the performance - that’s dedication to the cause! Having wandered around before NO HOT ASHES started, I returned to find the main stage still rather quiet. I walked into a softer track, but see a couple making good use of the space and dancing together. The band pause their set to talk about the Paris attacks, explaining that they were having a difficult time with it. The drummer stepped away from the kit and took to the mic and talked to a very supportive and understanding audience about just how much it was affecting him, saying ‘‘there are no words’’ and that his ‘‘thoughts went out the to friends and family the victims’’. The band did seem affected on stage, but performed none the less; taking the time to let the audience know what they were feeling not only helped to explain their own performance, but also helped to highlight just how far reaching the effects were and how close to home the attacks had actually hit. I moved on to get some food; sick of burgers and desperate for some vegetables, I had fish & chips, mainly motivated by the promise of mushy peas, and sat and chatted with a couple while I ate. Asking them about their highlights, they cited Helloween, UFO and also said they were impressed by the Dead City Ruins performance, whereas I took the opportunity to rave about Skånska Mord’s set. Once I had finished, I went to catch SKY VALLEY MISTRESS and was blown away by Kayley Davis’s voice; Maxwell Harvey William Newsome the Third (?!) hit the skins so hard at one point, I was sure he was going to break something. They churned out some seriously catchy songs. At one point in their set, they had a great pause, which almost became awkward where people were unsure if they should be clapping or not, but then they kicked back in stepping it up a few notches. Overall the sound was slightly messy at times, but all part of the style, it seems, and certainly no less enjoyable.
Pig Iron!
they performed with astonishing energy, Liva Steinberga giving it her all - I find it’s still very much the case, that females in rock and metal are rare, and so when one crops up, it’s very easy to get carried away, as a male, with the whole ‘she’s a hot rocker chick’ thing, but that is always an injustice to these ladies: Liva has a fantastic voice and did not disappoint those that hung around to see them.
SATURDAY I first headed to the main stage to catch the start of PIG IRÖN’s set, only to find an unexpectedly small crowd at this point. As I walked around in my damp trainers, observing the crowd, I found myself looking enviously at those with their New Rocks; despite all the rain, I was pretty sure their feet would still be bone dry. Pig Irön, with their bluesy hard rock, was a good start to the day. Part way through, I wandered to the second arena to catch a glimpse of CHARIOT - all weekend, I was struck by the consistent quality of the performers. I did find only one real criticism: the TVs above the second stage, I found to be distracting and annoying; personally, I would have them turned off. Back on the main stage, Pig Irön had drawn a half decent crowd; presumably, those stragglers and late lunchers that were finding it difficult to leave the comfort of their caravan or apartment. Their stand out track, ‘One Million Mega Hurts’, was the highlight of a fantastic set. After finishing, Hugh went along the front shaking hands with the audience - always a nice touch, I feel. Another thing that struck me about the event was that, despite the numbers, it was never a struggle to get a drink from any of the bars the staff did a fantastic job. Seeing the stage setup for KING OF THE NORTH, I figured we were going to see something different, and, sure enough, we were presented with a two piece. I was keen to see them perform after hearing Jake Wiffen’s (Dead City Ruins) recommendation. My main impres-
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Wandering back over to the main arena, I found it now packed for BLACK SPIDERS, though I found the music just a touch too loud - until this point I had not bothered with ear plugs but now found I had to pop them in. Clearly popular, they seemed to have a great gimmick of getting the crowd to chant ‘‘Fuck you, Black Spiders’’ whilst brandishing their middle fingers - didn’t quite understand it myself, nor the focus on Jaegermeister; I did suspect some kind of sponsorship. With the material and gimmicks not really doing it for me, I head back over to the second stage for CITY OF THIEVES, only to find they had started early, playing to another sparse crowd, again, less than they deserved. They thanked the crowd for watching and the media for the interview time, a nice acknowledgement for the rest of the RAMzine team back in the press area, who were missing the beer and music, and instead working their arses off with back to back interviews. They had a big sound for ‘Incinerator’. They were yet another band to introduce a song by talking about the EODM tragedy, referring to a blitz mentality whereby we should all stand strong and not give into the terrorists or fear - an empowering call to action which I felt as much as the rest of the crowd. The crowd was much bigger by
Sky Valley Mistress!
Fa st er Pussyca t!
Those Damn Crows!
Saxon! the end and were expressing their dismay at the announcement of the last song after such a great performance. After a break for refuelling and catching up with the rest of the RAMzine team, I walked into FASTER PUSSYCAT and was struck by the image - rather Mötley Crüe. I wandered once more over to arena two to watch DENDARA play with volume levels rather more bearable. It was now a fairly large crowd considering the size of the area. Impressively, at one point I could make out the crowd chanting along over the music. I hung around to see the rest of their set, punching air and thumping chest during the performance, I can‘t help but think they took a performance masterclass from Zakk Wylde. Having put on a great show, there was a thunderous applause and cheers as they finished on a superb closing track with great pounding pace. Back at arena one, the stage was being set for SAXON. A huge drum kit was flanked by a half dozen Marshall double stacks. Looking out, I saw people queuing to get in - security were being very tight on who was going in and out; presumably for fire safety reasons - nice to know we were in safe hands! The room was absolutely rammed, more so than I had seen all weekend. As I was waiting for the show to begin, my mind drifted back three hours to when I was sat a table in The Mash And Barrel across from Biff Byford who was eating his fish and chips. Saxon opened with appropriately named ‘Battering Ram’ and followed up with tracks like, ‘Sacrifice’, ‘Power And The Glory’, ‘Destroyer’ and ‘Heavy Metal Thunder’. Despite their age, they demonstrated some circle head-banging that would give a spin dryer a run for its money. Biff mentioned the turmoil in France and dedicated ‘Broken Heroes’ to the victims; he also said that they were supposed to be going to France with Motörhead, suggesting that they are no longer. Carrying on with the show, the crowd chanted for Biff to take his jacket off after he jokes that it only comes off when it reaches 120 degrees; the interaction with the audience seemed effortless.
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I take a brief wander to THOSE DAMN CROWS on the second stage, but I quickly decide it is not enough to keep me from Saxon. I headed back to catch ‘Never Surrender’. Biff introduced ‘20,000 feet’, stating it was one of the songs that started thrash metal, which is not hard to believe. The sound was brilliant, as was the lighting; the stage was set up so that there were two walls of opposing colour that would switch between red/blue, green/purple and red/ yellow - a great effect that made the best use of a limited stage. I was chatting with a fella in the media area earlier in the day about the attacks in France; he said that given the current affairs, it would be in poor taste for Saxon to play ‘Crusader’ and he wouldn’t be surprised if they weren’t discussing its omission from the setlist. As it happened, Biff gave the power to the audience. He let us decide between ‘Crusader’ and ‘The Eagle Has Landed’; I would have liked to have heard both, however the cheers went up for ‘Crusader’. To be fair, if I had to pick one, ‘Crusader’ would be my choice, too. I think it was done so well; sure, the theme is controversial - that is, over-zealous religious extremists - but it’s not about that; it’s about the music, and that came through with the audience’s decision. They closed off with ‘Princess Of The Night’, Biff thanking the HRH crowd before being chanted and cheered back on. The band look as though they are pushing retirement, yet they put in more energy than some of the other younger bands that weekend. During ‘Wheels Of Steel’, Biff had the whole room chanting with their arms in the air, and singing along; I’ve never seen anything like it. It was one of the best shows I have ever seen, carried by the sheer energy and atmosphere in the room. After finishing on ‘Denim and Leather’, they give a shout out to all fans, old and new, which sparked
a raucous applause. Biff finally removed his jacket to another almighty cheer before grouping with the band and bowing to the audience. Classic heavy metal at its best. I wish I could go back and see it all over again! It was an absolutely fantastic weekend, but there was an underlying atmosphere of melancholy resulting from the attacks in France, specifically the attack at the Eagles Of Death Metal concert the day prior; it was as thought there was an unspoken acknowledgement of what has occurred, but people seemed to be trying to get on and enjoy the weekend as best they could. For some, it had hit a little closer to home, as seen by the drummer’s speech during the No Hot Ashes show. I don’t think I was alone when I say that I found the atmosphere challenging; wanting to still enjoy the event, but without disregarding the tragedy that had transpired; certainly, I was not going to allow myself to become sullen and miserable, but instead got on board and raised a fist to the air as a salute to the victims; if we allow these tragedies to stop us from living and enjoying our lives, we afford these callous and horrid events the power they seek and contribute to their goals, and that in itself would be tragic. My utmost respect goes to the people and artists that, on that weekend, felt the pain and powered on through; Hard Rock Hell was
Reviews
Dark Sky Park
Sons Of Texas
Huron
Jack Frost
The Winery Dogs
Follow Me
Baptized In The Rio Grande
The Dead Stay Dead
Mélaina Cholé
Hot Streak
Self-Release Words: Jules Burnan
Razor & Tie Words: Paul H Birch Opening with the pugilist bloodbath of ‘Never Bury The Hatchet’ the pummelling riffs and bellowing vocals are an unexpected Texas Chainsaw Massacre scenario for those expecting Southern-fried rock. Formed in McAllen, Texas two years back this bunch of twenty-somethings have attracted the attention of Lamb of God producer Josh Wilbur and delivered eleven tracks of savage metal that appropriates Billy Gibbons’ pitched guitar squeal here and there but are more likely to dilly-dally among the wild cactuses where BLS or Pantera hung out. ‘Pull It And Fire’ has a rough welcome groove with, only for lead guitarist Jes De Hoyos to break out and audition for a prog metal band. Similarly ‘Blameshift’ appeals but the ricocheting double bass drums ever present high in the mix proves annoying here and on the bruising ‘Nothing King’. It’s obvious these lads want to get a few things off their chests, but in the rush to do so there’s not room to ruminate and enjoy the moment. The outrageous bluesy Sabbath swinging of ‘The Vestry Man’ and ‘Texas Trim’ redeem their busyness Those tracks where they strike black gold are ‘Baptized In The Rio Grande’ itself where with the foot eased on the peddle a little singer Mark Morales goes for the “born and raised” style narrative and makes you begin to care. Going even easier on the aggression, ‘September’ strums in on an acoustic and a single noted electric before rocking it up – that it becomes a compelling tale of a single mother barely coping with bringing up her kids, might get overlooked and it deserves attention. ‘Breathing Through My Wounds’ likewise chills in part on an acoustic with effective double tracked vocals, avoiding becoming a rough and ragged power ballad. You might taste blood in your mouth after listening to SOT but you can always spit it out.
Self-Release Words: Pagan Hel Huron only procrastinate about the things that matter and that is their finely tuned craft of producing such virulent masterpieces, otherwise they just take the bull by the horns and launch into a tirade of madness, effortlessly and painlessly striking with all guns blazing, no questions asked! Each track creates a tendency to be psychotic and vengeful, showing little remorse and empathy, but unlike the signs of a psychopath, Huron release their emotions so deeply they remain embedded in the skull forever! However Huron do not have to apologize or sympathize for anything on this album – brutality is the name of the game and they know just how hard to hit before going all out and bludgeoning the ears to their death, make no mistake. The fearless dominance shown by this band is prevalent and inspired by utter compulsion to grasp its own throat and throttle itself, but not without throttling the listener half to death first. It makes its mark with a blood stained grip that executes in keeping with the trend to annihilate in abundance. Not one of the tracks slip back into the shadows, but forges ahead in a dominant stance, all kicking and fighting for their lives, leaving a trail of destruction in the dirt as it passes, that is one way describe the band’s new album. In bone splintering explosion the poisonous riffs inject themselves into a waiting vein and ravish the nervous system, which could have the band arrested if they were to show those psychotic tendencies in person and not just with their music! From the off this album goes out to regain power and control over its contemporaries, and this is a British band we are talking about here, which is surprising, as there are not many UK bands, apart from a handful, who can say they own this level of brutality!
Self-Release Words: Rich Broom Dear reader, I’ll start with a confession. This is the first time I have ever heard of the Austrian band, Jack Frost and boy am I pleasantly surprised! This, their eighth album [otherwise known as Melaina Chole], will take you on an exploratory adventure [for all the right reasons I assure you] from their high-end riffs ringing out from the guitars, straight back down to a slow, deep chugging sound you’d get with industrial or doom metal. Laced with an almost acoustical element from time to time and a quiver of a Johnny Cash/Ville Valo vibe from front man Phred Phinster’s voice, it’s a wellrounded sound that stands out all on its own. Each song is easy to listen to. I feel the album is something you would find yourself listening to on a cold winters night for comfort and atmosphere, whilst riding on a public bus, headphones on, head resting against the cold glass as you travel home from work. To put it simply: it’s music to get lost in whilst you are in your own little world. ‘Half Man’ would be an apt song to picture yourself in the above scenario. ‘Loser In Your Eyes’ and ‘She Must Come Down’ are two songs that I would say provide the most variety within themselves and offer the listener a feeling of familiarity, but one that you can’t quite put your finger on – perhaps a band you’d come across on a Metal: A Headbanger’s Companion CD. If you have a wide appreciation of music, rather than pigeonholing yourself into rigidly set genres, then I see no reason why you would not like Jack Frost. Yes, it is slow paced at times and it doesn’t necessarily make you want to jump up and down, but I defy you not to at least nod your head along with the deep beats from the kick drum, or even break out into a air-guitar solo once in a while! If you’re looking for something different, Jack has your back. Released December 18th 2015.
earMUSIC Words: Ashley Crowson Hot Streak starts off exactly as you would expect, an all out blend of everything you expect from these musicians. ‘Oblivion’ bring’s an almost jazz feel to a great classic 80’s rock track. The first thing that screams out at you for familiarity is Kotzen’s voice. Imagine Chris Cornell but with a little less of the thick tone and more dynamic, it fits the track well, and is a great opener. Following straight on is ‘Captain Love’, this is more of the glam/hair metal style of the 80’s than anything else, flavoured with matching cheesey lyrics to really drive home the style. Sheehans bass playing takes control before the solo break before Kotzen comes in with a style and tone very reminicent of Joe Satriani and its then that I really start to recognise how much like Satriani the whole song is, imagine his ‘I Wanna Rock’ track but written for vocals, and you won’t be far off at all. Title track ‘Hot Streak’ comes in with a strong Jazz feel, showcasing Portneys skin beating skills in the field, while Sheehan and Kotzen combine their stringed weapons of choice with a great blend of simplistic playing to perfectly compliment the drums. The musicianship of the band really is stands out with this track, with it soon breaking into very fluid dynamic playing taking in everything each member brings to the band, but pushing out a something that in no way sounds forced. An all round good feeling rocker of a track, ‘How Long’ carries that talent straight on. Sometimes when bands get together with so much talent, the outcome can fall short of the expectation. The Winery Dogs have turned out an album that takes a look at what you expect, laughs at the pigeonholed ideas, and gives you a plethora of musical ideas that probably wouldn’t work had any other musician attempted. Read the full review at RAMzine.co.uk.
It’s not very often that you listen to an unsigned band and are blown away by the freshness and raw power of their music. With Dark Sky Parks’ debut EP, “Follow Me” we get just that. Taking inspiration from Royal Blood and QOTSA with a hint of Black Sabbath and Ziggy Stardust, the Yorkshire rockers get everything right. It doesn’t take long to hear what this band is all about. Rock. It’s that simple. The music grabs you from the first moments of Follow Me, the opening track and doesn’t let go till the final moments of track 5, Suicide FM. The guitar work throughout, handled by Ainsley Stones is brilliant. No notes seem to be wasted and the solos, when they arrive, just feel right. Hannah Jasper and Aiden Hall combine to create a solid and tight rhythm section that bands that sell out Wembley Arena would be jealous of. It would be wrong to single out certain aspects of the bands music, but it must be said that the vocals on this EP are fantastic. Debbie Bilsons voice is so unique that its difficult to make comparisons with other female artists. With all this being said, there are no stand out songs here. Each track creates a hypnotic journey in the listeners mind and despite being having a dark lyrical content, its easily relatable and the upbeat music allows it to not sound “depressing”. Dark Sky Park are a breath of fresh air in rock music. The influences on the band are clear, but they have created a sound that is unique. If they continue making songs like this, I have no doubts that they can go all the way. Record labels take note: sign these guys up. They are brilliant. Dark Sky Parks will release a their first full length album and tour in 2016
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Reviews The Shapers
Delayed Departure
More Than Most
Guardian
HAG
Reckless Youth
Consequences
Impossible is Temporary
Revolution
Fear of A Man
Self Release Words: Milly Youngman Toulouse trio The Shapers’ new EP offers up gritty riffs with singalong melodies and even a stripped-down surprise instrumental. You probably haven’t heard of them yet – but imagine dancing your socks off at a Parisian underground rock and roll club show, and The Shapers are what you’d be listening to. With more of an emphasis on the ‘punk’ side than the current pop punk landscape offers, Reckless Youth is a rough-aroundthe-edges but incredibly enjoyable punk rock EP that hints at a promising future.
Self-Release Words: Jules Burnan The Hampshire rockers are back with their 2nd EP Consequences and while they have stuck to the same formula that worked so well on their first outing, they still manage to keep things fresh. Consequences is full to the brim with clever riffs, powerful melodies and even bring Russ Merry from StreetFightSilence in as a guest vocalist. Stand out tracks are ‘Oceans’ and ‘Choices’ that feature fantastic vocals from Mike Harland. Keep an eye on these guys, they are going places!
UDR Music Words: Sean Rafferty The EP is a fresh example of the newest tide of electronic-infused rock making rounds around the country. Openers You’re Not Alone and Remember Who You Are throw in some creative electronic hooks and all tracks showcase a heavier sound than other, similar acts. Nightmare is the stand-out of the four songs, showing off a large, triumphant sound whilst keeping a good mix of styles. More Than Most have produced a solid chunk of electro-rock for the heavier tastes, no small feat for a debut.
Self Release Words: Ashley Crowson As debut metal releases for 2016 look, you cannot go far wrong with Guardian. Hard hitting and straight on point, Guardian are a band that are set to carve their own path and make strides in an overpopulated sea of typically bland, repetitive metal acts. Revolution is built to rip you a new one, a completely unforgiving experience, this debut is armed to the teeth with riffs of aggression. Your Grandparents might not like it, but your friends in the pit will. Released 22nd January 2016.
DNAWOT Record Words: Stuart Iversen As Christmas music emerges from the depths you might begin craving music with a heart as black and withered as the Grinch’s before that annoying girl corrupts him. If that is what you need then step forward HAG. Their punk-tinged sludge sounding like it might come to life and eat your kids. If Black Sabbath and the Melvins got together to have a child but occasionally let Motorhead babysit, it would probably end up like this and be all the better for it. Released 8th January 2016.
The Bloody Nerve Taste
Antic Records Invoking the spirit of The Rolling Stones is one hell of a risk and yet that’s very much what The Bloody Nerve are doing on their debut full-length album, Taste. Right from the opening funky blues of ‘Place To Hide’, which has a riff that brings to mind ‘(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction’, you are consistently reminded of the bands that came before and that serves as one of The Bloody Nerve’s biggest problems. Which is not to say that this music is ever bad, in fact, there are great moments on Taste. Both Stacey Blood and Laurie Ann Layne have brilliant voices, with Lacey, in particular, stealing the show on tracks like ‘Local Honey’. She’s got a set of pipes that again brings to mind classic singers like Janis Joplin and yet she shows that she is able to switch things up on the more fragile ‘Find Ya
1968 1968
Black Bow Records AsAlthough there are only 3 tracks to be had on this E.P the band make up for it with blistering and pulsating swipes of metal that thunder with highly tempting groove and intense riffage. Resonating with imposing strides of abrasive ingenuity, it captures the psychedelic essences that burst forth from its 47 year jail. There is no mistaking its powerful acid tongue and stoner rhythms that slide noticeably past the ears and saunters charismatically taunting its prey, which is exactly what the track ‘Marauder’ does in abundance. Moving on to the next track ‘Green Sails’ which hosts a plentiful rhythm and huge riffs that strike unmercifully with bruising passion and a large hob nailed boot to the groin! Wince in pain, as the guitars spin a web of intrigue and the bass
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shatters the innards to what were your ears! ‘HMS Conan’ is the third and final track on this deeply fuzzy E.P holding more than a mere handful of temptation it literally drags the body out from its hiding place and ravishes its senses. The stoner haze emanates from thick textures of expanding groove but leave the listener wanting more as this is only a finger licking taste of what it really desires. Showing a clear strength in its embracing clutch that is framed with sultry spicing and thunderous pulses, guiding you on a journey of sheer fascination that is soaked in melodious rapture and highly charged intricacies, force feeding its listeners with intense emotion and delightful heavy riffage, it is hard not to get caught up in the irresistible potency of each of the 3 tracks as they cascade over the ears and leave you enjoying a rich and pleasurable encounter of a bygone era that is suddenly back in the 21st century and being relived once again. Pagan Hel
Love’. In fact, the only real misstep is ‘Prayer at Night’ which features a preacher rambling over the top of some average music for just over a minute and never really works. The problem is that as good as The Bloody Nerve can be, they are not giving you anything new here. It is fine to look back at what has come before but if you never look to the future you are not going to stand out. Tracks like ‘Long Way Home’ just feel a bit safe and that is a real shame. There is obviously a lot of raw talent in this band and if they can move away from their roots and allow that to blossom, they could be something special. Stuart Iversen
Backyard Babies At O2 ABC, Glasgow
With the world seemingly determined to prove that it is shit, you wouldn’t think that hope could be found on a cold, dark and grey Monday night in Glasgow. Yet to lose that hope is to forget about the healing powers of rock and roll, something which Backyard Babies seem determined to make you remember. Having released their first album twentyone years ago and with only six others having emerged since, it is easy to take Backyard Babies for granted. To do so is to miss out on a hell of a lot of brilliant punk infused rock and roll, all of which they wield with impressive force. Kicking things off with ‘Th1rt3en or Nothing’, which comes off their latest album. It becomes clear that while the venue may not be full, those who are here are determined to have a good time and right from the start they give back to the band everything they receive. And they receive a lot. Backyard Babies play rock and roll, but it is delivered with a punk rock snarl. Tracks like ‘The Clash’ are dripping with attitude and that effortlessly slips into the live show. While The Wildhearts like hooks of ‘Dysfunctional Professional’ has everyone singing along. ‘Bloody Tears’ may well be so cheesy that it actually hurts, but even that is forgiven during this display of rock and roll perfection. If you were to throw insults you could point to the fact that this it is what it is. It is rock and roll played by a punk band,
but there’s nothing revolutionary here. However, if you are that person then you really shouldn’t be here because quite frankly you are a pain in the backside. Rock and roll played well is one of life’s greatest pleasures and this is exactly what Backyard Babies deliver. They are a band that bring to mind gutter bars and hint at a hangover somewhere in the future but which you shouldn’t care about today. Before their encore, the band take a moment to talk about the tragic events in Paris and express the need to not be afraid. To enjoy these shows and to keep attending them. It is a message that gives ‘Abandon’, which they play just after, a different edge. Their repeated refrain of ‘never again’ seeming to take on a whole new meaning in the light of those awful events. It is a defiant stand against the idea that anyone could stop people doing what they love and it feels like a genuine moment. As a music lover, it is easy to descend into hyperbole. To declare it your heart and soul and leave those around you rolling their eyes. However, every now and then an album or a show comes along that reminds you just how powerful this stuff can be. It may just be rock and roll played loud and played fast but when it is done right and when it is done with passion it becomes so much more than that. For a few hours Backyard Babies stripped away all the crap and just gave an audience what they wanted, it doesn’t get much better than that.
L i ve! Stuart Iversen
Sonic Medusa The Sunset Soundhouse Tapes
Pagan Hel
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Ripple Music Medusa As the tribal drumming starts the anticipation builds until it finally explodes into a rampageous melee of rhythms and sonic riffage. The bass also plays a large part in this track guiding it through its paces. It is a tantalising passage that is inspired with superb rock appetite and is also great for drying wet hair! Goblin Suite The wave of deep seducing rhythms cut like a knife and cast a rather doom laden feel over the proceedings. The vocals are edgy, gritty and well in keeping with the track as it creeps menacingly into a maelstrom of enticing and hypnotic embrace. Cold Wind Is led into a lustful weave of temptation. It is a rather low key track but none the less is catchy and predatory. It lures with superb melodic antagonism and turns into a feisty incendiary of punishing grooves that literally ignite. Wolf’s Prayer Is somewhat slow and deliberate. It portrays animal-like qualities and conjures up intrusive and impressive rhythms one would associate with a predatory beast. The mellow seducing beat is just waiting to leap out and strike and together with
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the colourful lyrics makes this a track that attacks its prey with relish. This E.P contains a superb feast of attitude, seduction and melodic creativity that goes hand in hand with sinister groove and doom laden textures that are captivating and well produced. Already on my third listen and enjoying the rapaciousness of Medusa again, its musical core is thunderous and contributes in abundance to the feel of this 4 track E.P and I have to say my favourite track by far although the deliberate pace of Wolf’s Prayer leaves you wanting to know more about the band as their diversity is endless, despite being nestled in a hard rock genre. The whole substance of this E.P is edgy and reveals layers of perpetual, well balanced songs that ignite to their maximum and are rather potent affairs of the mind. I can almost hear Ozzy singing Goblin Suite as the character and dynamic enterprise of the track builds to glorious proportions with a fantastic beat that pulverises in a charming way. It holds its aggressive manner as well as slipping in some ingenious tendencies making it a great listen. It can be quite restrained although still shows a bruising contempt that runs through its veins from its mighty biceps, so is impassioned with equal amounts of creativity that flourishes!
Issue 7 out Feb 2016!