Firebrand After Dark Issue 5 - November

Issue 5 - November 2013

Rhapsody Of Fire Hail Of Bullets

Sapiency

Slave Zero Exorcism Ringbearer Bloodspot

Uncl e Ac & Th id e Dea dbea Com petit ts ion

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- Uncle Acid & The Deadbeats - Exorcism - Satan’s Wrath - Bloodspot - Sapiency - Hail Of Bullets - Rhapsody Of Fire - Promethium - Symphony Of Pain - Relentless

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- Hymns from the Dark Side - News - Twitter Top 10 - Unearthing The Underground - Dark Side Of The Emerald - Slave Zero Inteview - Slave Zero Album Review - Astralnaught Interview

59 - Top 5 Videos 60 - Games Dungeon

73 - Reptilian Death - Buckcherry 74 - Zoltar Speaks - Suffer The Wrath 75 - Monkey3 - Craven Idol 76 - Ringbearer 77 - Eternal Fear - Brain Dead 78 - HARM - Psyclon Nine 79 - Hail Of Bullets - Crematory 80 - Broken Glazz 81 - Crucified Mortals & Exorcism Cover Photo by Dutch Michaels

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*All content and layout are copyright of Firebrand Magazine. Any attempt to distribute Firebrand Magazine to another site for purposes of download is strictly prohibited. All Firebrand Magazines are property of Firebrand. *

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Editor In Chief Rick Palin Senior Media Consultant Rachel Whiston Another busy month in Firebrand Land as the days get ever shorter and the temperature continues to drop. It’s a good job we have plenty of power packed releases to keep us going though these often cold and wet days.

Joining us this month we have interviews with the likes of Rhapsody of Fire, Exorcism, Symphony Of Pain, Satans Wrath and many more bands as well as the obligatory bucketload of new, reviews and general musings.

In terms of gaming this month proves to be extra eventful with the release of both the Playstation 4 as well as X-Box One and with both camps going head to head it will be interesting to see which one wins out. If anyone is getting one of these new machines and wants to share their experiences with us feel freee to drop us a line at afterdark@fbrr2010.com or tweet us at @fbadmag until the next time in the words of the immortal AC/DC ‘For those about to rock we salute you’

Editor Lee Walker Reviews Team Heather Blewett Stoodge McNulty Graham Pritchard Jon Seymour Contributing Writers Chris Nelson Download Content Team Rick Palin Judith Fisher Content Download sales@fbrr2010.com Advertising Enquiries sales@fbrr2010.com Review Requests afterdark@fbrr2010.com

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Contact Telephone +44(0)1244 940961

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Sapiency - Hungry Again Founded in the year 2009 Sapiency develops their characteristic fresh and unconsumed melodic death metal sound based on the Gothenburger School with modern elements in quite a short period of time. Sapiency are always delivering a phenomenal performance. They are bringing the fans to freak out with their energetic and exciting shows.

Monsterworks - Late Heavy Bombardment A London UK based band that has, possibly to its own detriment, never followed trends or towed the line; preferring to forge its own path in the continually evolving world of heavy metal. In this respect it has always stayed true to its mission statement: Image Is Nothing; Metal Is Everything.

Eye Of Solitude - Where the Decent Began Eye Of Solitude, UK’s orchestral Funeral Doom’s finest (featuring members of Unfathomable Ruination and successfull label-mates Sidious) which released their successfull and critically-acclaimed second fulllength, Sui Caedere, back in June 2012 through Kaotoxin records are back with a monolith of heaviness third full-length titled Canto III.

Soul Remnants - No Afterlife Hailing from the outskirts of Boston, MA, Soul Remnants is a death metal quintet making a name for itself in the underground scene. The group began to form in 2003 with Thomas Preziosi onguitar (Year of Our Lord, Armory) and Mitch Fletcher on vocals. They aimed to combine the raw intensity of American death metal with Scandinavian black metal.

Physics Of Demise - Troublesome Skies Formed in 2011 to deliver dedication, hard work, raw, face melting metal to the Connecticut scene! Each member has been in countless bands through out the years and want nothing more than to make music for the rest of their lives. A fully dedicated band with future goals to achieve, these guys plan to give it all they got at each and every show they play.

Physics of Demise released their debut album titled "Farewell To Better Days" in 2012 . Each song brings to the table, melodic tones, hard hitting riffs and technicality that offers a different style of metal that your use to.

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NEWS Skeltonwitch confirms European tour dates with Overkill Final installment of 'Serpents Unleashed' behind-the-scenes studio footage posted Currently riding a wave of critical acclaim for their new album "Serpents Unleashed," midwestern blackened metal heathens Skeletonwitch -- who are currently touring North America with The Black Dahlia Murder -- will head overseas to join legendary thrashers Overkill on a spring tour of Western Europe that will begin shortly after the completion of their early 2014 U.S. tour with Amon Amarth and Enslaved. Additional international tour dates will be announced shortly.

Hailed by Decibel as the band's best effort yet, "Serpents Unleashed" -- recorded earlier this year with Kurt Ballou (Converge, High On Fire, Isis) and featuring artwork by John Baizley (Baroness, Kylesa, Kvelertak) -- recently debuted at #62 on the Billboard Top 200 in addition to cracking the Top 10 on the magazine's independent, hard rock and vinyl albums charts.

The fifth and final in a series of behind-thescenes videos documenting the album's recording can be seen below.

Manowar Announce Next Headlining Performance For Summer Festival Season 2014 In celebration of the 25th anniversary of "Kings Of Metal," Manowar announce the next summer festival stop on their "Kings Of Metal MMXIV" World Tour: Saturday, May 24, 2014 at the Metal Summer Festival at Maçka Küçükçiftlik Park in

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Istanbul, Turkey. Tickets will go on sale soon.

This will be Manowar's triumphant return to the Turkish festival scene after their celebrated performance in 2010.

Manowar will perform the full "Kings Of Metal MMXIV" album along with a "best of" set of other immortal metal hymns in a completely new stage production.

"The Turkish fans of Manowar went literally berserk last time! And we have no doubt that they will have even more fire and passion in their veins this time! This will be a show you don't want to miss!" said Manowar bassist Joey DeMaio.

Manowar Announce Return To Estonia For "Kings Of Metal MMXIV" World Tour In celebration of the 25th anniversary of Kings Of Metal, Manowar announce the next date for their "Kings Of Metal MMXIV" World Tour: Tuesday, March 25, 2014 at Rock Café in Tallinn, Estonia. This will be Manowar’s third visit to Estonia.

"We can't wait to return to Estonia! We have great memories from our previous shows in Tallinn and we've been trying to find a promoter with enough balls to bring us there again for quite a long time! The time has come to once again bring true metal back to Estonia!" said Manowar bassist Joey DeMaio.

Manowar will perform the full "Kings Of Metal MMXIV" album along with a "best of" set of other immortal metal hymns in a completely new stage production.

Manowar’s "Kings Of Metal" album, a milestone in metal history, was first released on November 18, 1988, followed by a world tour in 1989. In celebration of the 25th anniversary of these events, Manowar will release a brand new special version of the album, "Kings Of Metal MMXIV," followed by the "Kings Of Metal MMXIV" World Tour.

Many more tour dates will be revealed soon.

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We do work extremely hard each and every month to bring you Firebrand After Dark magazine, although when we do decide to take a few minutes respite we check out how things are going with our readers and followers on Twitter.

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You can follow the After Dark crew on Twitter @fbadmag .

Mention us in your tweets or use the #FirebrandAfterDark hashtag, we do reply from our office although only during tea breaks, ahem!

@ohnohemi People just got married at the Black Dahlia Murder concert, right before the most pit ensued. #Metal @Gooner Godfather If Heavy Metal is my religion then Iron Maiden is God. Up the Irons \m/

@xXmarmite69Xx Legendary band Mordred are back and in rehearsal studios in the states, their looking at a UK tour in 2014 too @FloorFlawless If there was a land called Metalland, I would definitely live there #Metal

@bahium I grow another testicle while listening to Viking and Folk Metal

@SoullessEntity They say #HeavyMetal would just be a faze in a persons life, but being a true #Metal head never gets old!! \m/\m/ @ThatEricAlper LSD was first synthesized 75 years ago today by Chemist Albert Hoffman. In no way changed music...oh wait. @Metal_Mina My mom always calls me “Spawn of Satan�. I wonder if see realizes that she is infact calling herself Satan. @Old_Man_Cropsy Was listening to Full Metal Racket on @firebrandrr but I gotta go to work. Metal Heads get your arse over there now. Awesome tunes \m/ @aardvarkwizard Once I listened to this album on Mushrooms and I turned into a Squid for a while. It was pretty great.

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Re-Armed have signed a new record deal with Germany's Eternal Sounds Records.

The Finns are currently on tour in the UK and their new album 'Rottendam' will be out 10th January.

Canadian Black Metallars Valknacht have posted a new song 'Sacrifice' online. The track will feature on the bands upcoming third album 'Le Sacrifice D'ymir' which is due out in march 2014.

will be unleashed on 21st January on Greyhaze Records.

Urgehal will be recording a final album despite the passing of Trondr Nefas last year. The Norweigan's have announced they will be bringing in a number of guest vocalists for the project.

Upcoming Releases!!!!

Agony Face – CLX Stormy Quibblings Cryogen – Continuum Apocalyptica – Wagner Reloaded Coven – Destiny of the Gods Ascension – Far Beyond the Stars Funeral Curcle – Funeral Circle Voivotus have just released a new 7 track album online. The Karelian Black Metal band Tad Morose – Revenant Malevolence – Antithetical have made the album available on their Aeon Zen – Self Portrait bandcamp page.

Hecate Enthroned – Virulent Rapture New Yorks TOMBS have entered the studio Hell – Curse and Chapter the commence work on the follow up to their debut 2011's 'Path Of Totality' Erik Rutan will be producing the album at his Mana For more upcoming releases and all the Recording Studios in Florida. latest news from the Metal World check out the After Dark Facebook page Luxembourgs Scarlet Anger have announcing their new album 'Freakshow' will www.facebook.com/firebrandafterdark be released in April 2014. This will be the follow up to their critically acclaimed debut 'Dark Reign' Not only have Singapores Abolition A.D completed work on their new album 'After Death Before Chaos' they've also signed a Worldwide deal with Pulverised Records.

Warfather the new band featuring Steve Tucker ex-Morbid Angel have announced their album 'Orchestrating The Apocalypse'

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Stoodge Mc Nulty Interviews K.R Starrs aka Uncle Acid Of

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Receiving a phone call to be told that you'll be supporting Black Sabbath on an upcoming European Tour is every bands dream, it's the ultimate holy grail. That's exactly what has happened to Uncle Acid and The Deadbeats. After Dark got a brief chat to K.R Starrs Aka Uncle Acid on what the band are currently up to and how they received news of the crowning honour they'd be bestowed of supporting Black Sabbath.

Hey guys, what have you been up to recently?

Having some down time, writing new music and preparing for the tour.

involved burning candles and a Goats head?

Sadly not! Beyond reading about those kind of things, not alot really goes on.

Uncle Acid and The Deadbeats is one awesome name for a band, was their any other monikers you toyed with before deciding on this one?

That was the only one I could think of!

The tour in support of the mighty Black Sabbath begins this month across Europe/UK. When did you find out you were given Tony Iommi's blessing?

At a creepy hotel in Germany getting ready to play Your new album 'Mind Control' draws inspiration of a show. Our agent called me and when I put down 1970's exploitation Horror Movies. Would you call it the phone I just sat quietly looking out the window. I a concept album and why did you decide on this was just shocked by it all. It was like being in the subject for an album? twilight zone or something‌ Yeah, its definitely a concept album. There's not really so much of a horror movie vibe on this one.

If someone had told you in 2009 that you'd be It's more real horror, in the Jim Jones, Charles supporting Sabbath on a European Tour in 4 years Manson style. The end of the hippy era! It just time, how would your reaction have been? seemed like a good thing to write about.

I would never have believed it. I still find it hard to believe. I probably wont fully believe it until I'm on 'Mind Control' is your 3rd full length album. Has stage that first night. there been an evolution or progression in your sound since you guys first started playing You are also playing your own headline show in together?

Dublin at The Academy 2 on 13th December for a In some ways the music has got darker. I think show I'm really looking forward to. Have you each album has its own separate vibe though. grazed the Emerald Isle before or is some of this tour going to be about playing places you've How about the crowds that come to see the band. previously missed out on travelling to?

Do you notice much diversity or is it mostly diehard I've never been to Ireland before, so I'm really red eyed hairy geezers wearing Denim that show looking forward to it. We occasionally play up at the shows?

Dubliners tunes in the van so we'll be cranking It's very diverse. Everything from kids, stoners, those up on our way! metallers, hipsters, oldies...we get a good mix of people.

Apart from the obvious one which bands are to looking forward to playing with and meeting up with Do you agree with the 'retro' tag you guys are over the course of your upcoming tour? labelled with?

I think we've got Naam playing with us at our show No. This is just rock music the way its supposed to in Austria which should be a good one. We met sound; heavy riffs and fuzz! You don't get them briefly in Germany and they seemed like good people going around saying 'retro pop' or 'retro guys and their music is great too. It's always great jazz', yet for some reason 'retro rock' is an checking out new bands though. acceptable term that gets used all the time. It makes no sense to me.

Well guys best of luck with the tour and hopefully we'll meet up at the Belfast and Dublin dates.

It would be easy to think that you guys dabble in Thanks a lot! See you all soon! witchcraft and black magic. What is your actual relationship with The Occult and have you ever been invited to any strange parties which may have

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Csaba Zvekan Of

Speaks to Lee Walker 16

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, Many people know you from your time with Raven Lord. How will they react to the music that you are releasing under the Exorcism name?

Good question. Let's find out in early 2014 when the record is scheduled for a release. Well, first of all thank you for the interest in Exorcism and giving us the opportunity to present the band.

The music is totally different in many ways. The tempo is mid paced and the riffs with the so called "devil's interval" that was used extensively

by Black Sabbath and many others has definitely influenced the band and gives it's unique sound.

The lyrical content is somewhat darker and the overall mood pretty grim with topics from dooms day scenarios apocalyptic metal meltdown.

Why did you choose Exorcism as the bands name?

I didn't. The name was given to us with great honour by our manager Axel Wiesenauer from Rock'n Growl management. When he listened to demo songs and we were in talks he kept referring to the product as the "Exorcism material". So when all was set in motion logos, banners etc were all made with that name.

Suddenly it made total sense that this is the only band name we could have. I do have to mention that there was a song title with the very same name and must have liked it hahahaha.

How did the lineup for the band come togtether?

When Golden Core Records, Germany showed interest in the band I was touring with Raven Lord. So working with Joe Stump was a lot of fun and we became good friends very soon. I explained to him what Exorcism should be and if he would be interested in working on this record.

He agreed and we took it from there. The same goes to Lucio Manca he also works very fast and accurate. I wanted to work with people who I can depend on not just for one record but for many to come. So all we needed was drummer and with a Worldwide search we found Garry King as the

perfect fit for the band. I have a very good feeling that this line up might stick for a very long time.

I read that that you originally wrote a lot of the songs which are about to be featured on the upcoming album for a solo album way back in 2006/7. What made you choose to use them for the band album instead of keeping them for your solo album?

This is a very good question. Yes, I originally wrote parts of the material in 2006/2007 and then added a few song this year . Still I would never take credit for this incredible work of today with every individual band member who worked out the details and crafted their instruments on their own. A band like Exorcism with this line up of musicians makes things even more interesting as a whole. The main reason for this to become a band rather than a solo project was the simple fact that I prefer a real band over a solo project.

Besides I am very proud of my band mates and like to share the focus for all of them.

Does the increase in the amount of time that you will be spending on the Exorcism project (for want of a better word) mean that Raven Lord will be put on the back burner?

Only time will tell. I do know that currently Exorcism keeps me busy with all the many interests. Still I want to be true to my fans for Raven Lord and deliver them the second record they're waiting for. Nothing gets pushed to the back burner on purposes but the day has only 24hours, right.

In terms of the upcoming album how close is it to being released?

Very close. Here is the current situation pre production has long come and gone and we're full blown in the main production. So far we have excellent drums by Garry King with his pristine accuracy and recording skills. A dream come true drummer who can not only record, edit and even engineer the requested sound by the producer.

We are very fortunate to have Garry.

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Now Lucio Manca came to TMS Recording Studios in Spain where we recorded the bass guitars in just a few days. Lucio comes prepared with his own ideas and it's really just a matter of finding the record button and you have your bass hahahahahaha. So now I have four songs by the mighty 'Shredlord' Joe Stump and just like a mind reader he came up with a guitar tone that I like very much. The solos are outrageous and brilliant and he's overall playing is extremely heavy creating the Exorcism sound. Now as far as vocals I already had a good bunch demoed down but they will all be 2013 fresh new vocal tracks with somewhat new ideas and phrasings.

You know I 've been listening to this material for some years now and now have the opportunity to make the changes i've always wanted. Music is a constant evolution of your skills and a snapshot of the current days.

about end time scenarios and I guess people like to describe us as a doom metal band.

Do you have anything planned between now and when the album launches?

There will be a couple of cool surprises I don't mean to spoil things but it branches out in the video imagery. If you know what I mean.

Are there any messages that you would like to pass on to your fans?

I would really thank all the readers of Firebrand After Dark, our supporting fans and of course you making up these great questions. Once the ball is rolling come taste the band and keep updated you might want to sign up on our Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/ exorcismband or visit our official website at http://www.exrocism13.com.

When the album is released what can the Thanks a lot and stay metal \m/ Firebrand After Dark readers expect to experience from it?

Csaba Exorcism is one of the darker band projects i've sang with. We have some tuned down guitar riffs Ă la Black Sabbath, Ozzy Osbourne and vocals sound in the veins of Dio, Judas Priest and Deep Purple. The lyrical topics are very dark themed

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Stoodge Mc Nulty interviews frontman Tas Danazoglou of

From playing bass in London Doom Riff Masters Electric Wizard to getting signed to Metal Blade records before releasing his first album with his current band, the very productive and accomplished musician Tas Danazoglou has already gathered a commendable history and back catalouge in Metal. Satans Wrath signed to Metal Blade in 2011 and with their debut album having been unleashed last year justifying Brian Slagels paperwork, the band of mephistophelian dark lords are just about to drop their second release.

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A few days prior to the launch of their demonic follow up album 'Aeons Of Satans Reign' Tas Danazoglou the front man of the Greek Satanic Metallars speaks to Stoodge about their new album, kicking Grannies in the face and um.......celebrating Christmas.

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Your new album 'Aeons Of Satans Reign' comes out this month (12th November). What's your honest opinion on the album and compared to your debut 'Our Galloping Blasphemy' how blasphemous and brutal is the record?

Well I love both albums really, the thing I like a lot on Aeons is that Stamos wrote songs too and to me they sound great! Apart of that both albums kick ass!

Aeons is def blasphemous hahaha, brutal I'm not sure about, compared to these new bands with typewriter sounding drums and driggers I guess the most important thing to me is to have good songs.

shit‌ So when I bought Venoms first single 'In League With Satan' around 81-82 I was totally blown away. I had albums by Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath and Judas Priest by then but Venom was insane!!!!! It made me realise the great rebellion against society and even against God, right at this moment I knew why I wanted to kick all those grannies in the face.

You guys began this journey as a two piece.

What were your aspirations and plans as a band then? I mean were you contemplating planning live in your early days? I can imagine it being Is being anti Christian something that take difficult to pull of your sound as a two piece. precedence when writing lyrics or is it more Right from the start me and Stamos wanted a full about glorifying Satan? Or do both come band but we couldn't find the right people so we said collectively? fuck it!!! Lets do it, the two of us with a few friends Isn't being anti Christian exactly the same with being doing guest solo guitars and that was it. We didn't Satanic? When I write lyrics I am influenced by my have a plan apart of the urge to make an album that favourite bands, old witchcraft books and I have my can stand up high next to our idols and that's what collection of 70s satanic horror movies. Stupid we did. fuckfaces that I see on the bus helps too‌ Can you shed some light on the whole Goats Head imagery associated with the majority of Black Metal bands?

First of all we are not a Black Metal band, we are a Satanic heavy metal band. The goat was always a pagan symbol of fertility and madness.in ancient Greece, it was worshiped in the form of Pan, the Satyrs and also in the Delphi oracle as the temple was build there after seeing goats inhaling fumes from a chasm. The goats got high on the fumes and so did the Priestess of the temple.

Later.in many Pagan ceremonies worldwide the high Priests were also wearing a goat mask so the first Christians that witnessed this personified Satan as a goat, in babylon also and summeria it was worshiped and it made love to women.

This is way the goat is the ultimate Satanic symbol and the archenemy of the church. Templars used it too, they named the half goat half man figure Baphomet, blessed be his name.

What do you guys think of being labelled 'Old School' Black Metal? I mean it's not something that never went away right?

We are not Black Metal. we are a 'SATANIC HEAVY METAL' band, Black Metal is only venom!!!!!

What's your earliest memory of Black Metal and was it the whole Satan concept that fascinated you from the start?

I was born in Greece and back then and even now people are total brainwashed Christian assholes, you know the old grannies going to church and

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How and when did this current line up come into being?

After 'Galloping Blasphemy' Stamos suggested a good friend of his to be the second guitar player and I suggested to Stamos to take a common friend of ours Costa on bass. They are both mad by the way, haha then I knew Nathan from hanging around in London so we asked him to join and play drums, so that was it really.

earth thinks about Jesus Christ on Christmas? Oh I forgot the Christians. You know the old punk band Fear? they've got a song called 'Fuck Christmas' I prefer Halloween though, it’s more appropriate, haha!

Tasi, you are heavily clad in Tattoos. When did this fixation begin, what Ink means the most to you and is there anywhere left on your body for anymore in the future?

Well I'm running out of space, including the face Does all today's World problems stem from tattoos. Lately it's embarressing, I'm going to laser Christianity or do you just use this subject to them off as twenty years ago it was a "Fuck You To concentrate on when composing material?

Todays problems don't exist because of Christianity, All" and now it’s like you have to have one to be the world is facing problems because of the stupitidy socially accepted, it's far out! fuck them anyway!!!! of human race. Christianity and all other religions One more question now and I know there's a few are one more projection of this stupitidy, another readers requesting for this question to be asked. basic problem of todays world is modern 'Metal' How real is Satan to you and is he on Earth right bands, hahaha they should be now? exterminated!!!!

He is very real, he's got a human form now, he's as real as this Earth, he’s the embodiment of all evil How will you be celebrating Christmas? I and the destroyer of Jesus Christ. He walks among somehow don't think you'll be changing your you, he was born in 1971, it's me….. name to Santas Wrath for the festive season.

I celebrate Christmas as any other person, who on

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Stoodge Mc Nulty Speaks to

Howdie After six years on slugging it out on the European Metal curcuit Germanys Bloodspot are ready to take the Bull and whatever else is infront of them "By The Horns"!

Guitarist Howdie spoke to Stoodge about the new album, the bands past and their future aspirations.

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So for everyone that doesn't know the band can you describe the band and give us a little background history?

Bloodspot are 5 guys from a small German town called Limburg. As this odd town does not have a lot of interesting stuff to offer, people usually form a band, drink beer with their buddies, and celebrate wild orgies in the rehearsal studio! This was at least how we started as a band in 2006.

We were young and weren’t really able to play skillfully, but nonetheless we had a blast.

Bloodspot, from founding until today, is a band that is based on a friendly and familiar relationship between everyone involved. This family has grown continuously over the past years. Even with some changes in the line-up, we kept the engine running at full speed, which has been a rather arduous and costly adventure.

We continue to go forward because of our emotional musical connection with each other, which makes for some intense confrontations and clashes. In my opinion, this is what makes Bloodspot so special. Everyone who has seen us live on stage will recognize that we are not simply standing there and doing a job. We play our music out of pure passion and deliver it as an organic meltdown. This endurance, and the continuous evolution of the band, is something special for everyone involved. This band enables us to unleash things that want to break out of us, which is mainly playing music that we all like. But there’s more to it than that – the band clearly stands at the center of our lives. We cannot imagine something better or cooler than being on the road, playing our asses off on stage, and having a fucking great time together! In terms of genre, we are often associated with this peculiar overlap between Thrash and Death Metal.

However, we never consider ‘being’ a sound or genre. We simply wanted to play some brutal metal, picking up on whatever the fuck came out of us in the moment. Our focus has always been, and still is, having fun playing music and hanging out together. Without something like that, Bloodspot wouldn’t be possible. The band needs to be alive collectively, and needs the impulse to grow, but also needs some friction. None of us is a professional musician, but when we combine our forces, there’s not much that can stand in our way!

Your new album 'By The Horns' comes out on 29th November. What can you tell us about the record?

By The Horns is the first record with our new singer/vocalist Pete, and the last record with our

year-long bassist Kuno. These circumstances alone make the album something very special for us. For me personally, By The Horns is clearly the beginning of a new era. The previous EP Embrace The End, represents a big part of the band’s history, ranging from the first Bloodspot song ever, to many others spanning a 5-year period. In that time, we had to learn a lot, investing a lot of time to get better in terms of playing, while collecting as much stage experience as we could get. In some ways, you could say it was a time of orientation. After Embrace The End it was clear that we wanted to be more brutal and uncompromising on the next record, which we managed to achieve in a quite satisfying way if you ask me. By The Horns sounds very rough and raw, which surely is a result of a very tight schedule and a focused workflow without much screwing around. This might cause some reduced ‘catchiness’ and not that much hook density, but it has led to what we wanted to do, to record a very dirty and brutal album through and through. I like to imagine that we have opened a new door with the sound of this record, which could lead the Bloodspot ‘sound’ to new highs and more diversity in the future. We simply had to break our horns first, so to say. “By The Horns” is available through the online shop of our label Bret Hard Records (http://www.brethard.de/), and through our own shop ((http://bloodspot.bigcartel.com/) after the official release, which is the 29th of November at the latest, as well as everywhere where you can buy cd’s or mp3’s. The best possibility to buy a cd however is at one of our concerts. We sincerely hope that we are going to make it to Ireland someday soon! By the time this article is released, you should be able to find the music video off the title track of By The Horns on YouTube.

Have the band got a single creative mastermind or do you all put your ideas on the table and then work from there?

Bloodspot is definitively a community project.

Every member of the band has the full right to participate in the creative process, whichever way they choose to. The ways and extent of the output differs from member to member, but has reached a fairly balanced level, which still leaves some space for development and change. However, I am the one responsible for most of the musical material as well as the organizational tasks, bringing me to some kind of lead position in the band, which I honestly fought for in the past… a fact that most certainly exhausted

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we played it so often over the past few years.

Additionally, people in most of the places and venues we play don’t know us as well, so they couldn’t tell if we were playing new or old material, and even if they did, we do what we want to! Plus, we couldn’t wait to bring the new material from the studio to the stage!

Since bringing in a new vocalist has the bands lyrical focus or musical direction changed much at all?

We haven’t changed our style completely. But all in all, the new material is quite different compared to what we did on Embrace The End. One big reason for this is the fact that we got a new guy at the vocals. He sounds different, his connection to music is different, and he is just a different person. The other very important aspect is that the songs on Embrace The End represent the whole band history as I mentioned before. I the others sometimes. On the other hand, I think think this was a very important process for us. they were quite happy with me handling some But over the last 2 years, especially with the responsibilities and tasks no one else wanted to songwriting for the new album, and the fresh be troubled with. Besides, we always have influences from Pete, we were getting more worked together on developing and fleshing out focused on what we really want to do. This the ideas I brought to rehearsals to full-fledged process is still in full motion. At present, there is a songs. After some time, the others have not only whole lot of energy and creativity growing within provided single riffs or grooves, but also came up the band and it doesn’t seem too ready to stop. with their own song materials and ideas. This Besides, Pete’s lyrics are more critical of society development is still in full motion, and I’m excited and thematically more focused and fleshed out. to see where it will take us. I always had some He brings his inner world just as our old vocalist trouble letting go of some things, transferring did, but he is much more refined and reflective in tasks and responsibilities to the others, while doing so, in my opinion. leaving them more room to do things if they ask to. But I still think I’m more relaxed than back in What are the bands plans and aspirations the day. I made the artwork for the previous two between the launch of the record and next releases, for example. In the case of By The summer?

Horns, Pete has taken the job from me and There’s a lot on the agenda! In December, we shown that we should keep it that way. Without are playing some weekend gigs and a little tour in the songs provided by Kuno and Marius, By The between the 2013 and 2014. You can find all the Horns would have been more monotonous for relevant tour dates on our homepage sure. Time simply has shown that it’s far better to (bloodspot-music.de). In April 2014, there will be combine our artistic and organizational forces a fortnight tour. Aside from that, we want to start and talents for an optimal result. This is exactly writing new material as soon as possible and what is happening in the moment. Healthy perhaps start work on a second video to By The conflict and room for collective growth are the Horns. On the organizational side, there’s a most important things for Bloodspot in my whole lot more to do… tidying up the rehearsal ~opinion, as stated earlier. room for example.

You dudes do enjoy playing live. Have you been unleashing much of the new album to audiences or are you keeping your cards close to your chest until the record is out?

Apart from one single song we already performed all new material on stage. The old stuff was getting on our nerves after some time, because

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Track By Track

Bloodspot “By The Horns” comes out on Bret Hard Records on 29th November.

Howdie gives us a track by track talk through of the forthcoming release.

We chose "And They Brought Gold" as the opener, because it simply smashes your face directly and without warning. Brutal Thrash Metal! Lyrically, the song meditates on the exploitation of so-called tribal cultures by power-hungry corporations.

"The Legend of Butch Miller" was called "Thrash n' Roll" in the conceptual work phase. A fitting title in my opinion, as the song has a fairly rocking flair to it. About halfway through, it also features the most fuckin awesome and raw hook on the album, in terms of vocals. The lyrics revolve around the confrontation with misfortunes and calamities in a personal space. The character of "Butch" has some real inspiration, but it is rather the personification of a strong interpersonal relationship, which manages to keep your head up even in the darkest hours of your life.

"By The Horns" is about metaphorically taking the bull by the horns. The bull here stands for instilled and routinized behavior and consumption patterns, which by chance are based on the exploitation and enslavement of other people. To realize that such patterns exist, however, does not mean you can simply abandon them, because yourself have become a part of the machine already. This very conflict is the main topic here. It's the fastest and most punky song on the album!

"Burst Black", in my opinion, is a full- fledged Death/Thrash-piece. On top of that, it's the only song featuring blast-beats, which we seldom use as a stylistic device. The text tells about the influence of the media and certain "defining powers" and the pressure they cause.

"Death Down There Hold my Approach" is one of those songs that clearly cut out of the album in its entirety. One of the reasons is the 7/4 beat, which makes for a very special groove.

Additionally, the oriental melodies in this song are an homage to our friends in Turkey.

Thematically; it criticizes the unnecessary burden of modern cultures that come with the attitude to take part in everything and miss nothing around you. "Volcanos" is the doom song of the album, marking a second cut in the material. It’s a heavily atmospheric and very dark song. It is also the song, which took the most time to complete, as there was some hard work in finding a fitting groove, while still being able to play it. Normally, we just are accustomed to other speeds.

"Enter the Gray" is something rather typical of Bloodspot again. Fast and solid thrash bludgeoning at high speed, featuring a nice and cozy halftime in between. The lyrics tell you not to think in superficial patterns, not to aspire to black or white, but stick with the middle, the gray.

"Death Illusion" is about the passing of someone special and the loss of reality that comes with such a situation. The song features various elements and stylistic devices known from Thrash and Death Metal and combines them into a very diverse experience. "Far From Innocence 2013" is the new and improved version of one of our older songs. It has been sped up by 10 bpm and features an additional groove part, while Pete has customized some of the lyrics and vocal work to fit his own style. We want to dedicate this song to our dear friend from Japan, who is supporting us with a hard-to-believe enthusiasm and spirit. Kumi, we love you!

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Hey dudes, how have things been in the Sapiency camp since your album 'Tomorrow' came out in March?

KAI: The Release of "tomorrow" was definitely a very special moment for all the 6 of us so we were really excited about what our fans would think about this album. The feedback then was awesome. We played a release-gig which was absolutely sold-out in March and even had some very special VIP-guests such as AndrĂŠ from Rage and Gerre from Tankard who was also the DJ at our after show-party. We had tons of extremely positive and awesome reviews which made us very proud, because we put a maximum of effort in writing this album - to be honest the feedback was far beyond our expectations, this was really nice for us. Furthermore, we received many more interview requests, visited several Radio stations, played a little tour in Germany in May and also were also booked on some very nice club shows, for example the sold-out show in Frankfurt with the Modern Metal-Giants Killswitch Engage which was a very special event for us. We became good friends with the KSE guys who are awesome artists and especially very nice people backstage. We also had different requests of booking agencies, different managers and labels like Eclipse from the U.S. we are now working with. Currently we are planning to record a new music video as we had so many requests after having released or first official video for the song "Free Within". We're also planning another tour for the near future.

Things are going quite well at the moment and we're really looking forward to the future.

You should definitely stay tuned about what will happen with Sapiency in the near future!

When you compare things now to what they were like this time two years ago what's the big differences?

RENE: A lot of things have happened during the last two years.

First, we have finally found the perfect line-up , which is an unimpeachable unity.

In the last two years we have played many support shows for great bands like Killswitch Engage and Dead by April for example. These are experiences which let you grow together as a band. The many shows we have played were important for the development of "Tomorrow", because we only wanted to have songs on the album, which go live right forward. I think we have done it!

Of course, there are also other aspects. We work much faster and more professional and

have a clearer idea of what we want. Just as well the process of song writing works much faster, because we know very clearly how we want to sound.

We had also intensively worked on our live performance and developed a great network of people and partners who support us in every way.

'Tomorrow' is now also available for digital download thanks to Eclipse Records, how does launching the record digitally weigh up against the original release of the album?

RENE: Our album "Tomorrow" is already digitally available since our release in march, for example on Amazon or iTUNES etc.. Our digital distribution partner here in Europe is Zebrulation with whom we still work together. Recently, we got in touch with Eclipse Records, because we are absolutely wanting to enter the U.S. market, so we signed a digital deal with Eclipse, to see how the U.S. metal heads react on our stuff, worth mentioning that a promotion campaign will be launched by Eclipse in the States in addition to the distribution. Certainly somebody might be wondering how useful this strategy is, because of the fact that our album is available digitally worldwide already.

Ultimately, it is our aim to increase the promotion effect, because additional contacts can ensue under the deal with Eclipse.

Was there any temptation to change anything on the record before the digital release?

KRSTO: Well...actually not because the album was already finalized and therefore there was no need for us to change some mix or mastering settings in due to lack of money. It would be nice if we would have at least one more song of the recording session or a adequate live recording but it unfortunately does not exist yet, so that's why the digital release is exactly the same as the physical CD. Well, except the kind of the audio data of course.

This isn't your first release, 'Fates End' came out in 2010. How has the bands sound progressed since then?

SEBASTIAN: During the period of "Fate´s End" and our new album "Tomorrow" we have played a lot of shows - so that's had us form ourselves to an even more compact unit.

This applies particularly our new singer Krsto who could contribute his imagination and skills much more during the time. Our new album "Tomorrow" has a more modern touch than

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"Fate´s End" has. On the new album we have reduced the classic metal elements a little, as an effect of natural development of ourselves. This results in the fact that the new songs punch a bit more and raise the hardness.

Where in your list of proudest moments does the composition of 'Fates End' and 'Tomorrow' rank?

KAI: Well, in our relatively short band history we had numerous awesome moments that made us very proud. But the release of a new album is always a very special moment. "Fate’s End" was our very first album and it was very exciting to see how it works between numerous other releases of other bands.

And to be honest the response towards this CD was so incredible - we could definitely spread our name throughout the scene with this release. In addition to that it has opened us several doors to different agencies, bookers and so on. The release of "Tomorrow" was a little bit different. We worked really hard on every single song of it and we originally planned to release it earlier. But during the recordings we split up with our former shouter and Krsto joined us. He was our number one candidate, a very talented and experienced musician and also well known in the German underground scene - it makes us pretty happy to have him on board. But it also took us more time to rearrange the songs as he brought some really good ideas into the song-writing. In the end we feel very positive about the fact that we went this "a little more difficult" way.

But before we released the album we were really worrying about if we can fullfill the high expectations of our fans and the press - but I think this is quite normal when you are a musician.

As mentioned before the responses were so amazing that we now can say yes, we did everything right.

Releasing these two albums is definitely what we would call our proudest moments because we put so much time, blood, sweat and alcohol in it, haha. To know that there are so many people that really like our kind of music and support us makes us so damn proud and happy. This is really the reason why we are doing this. Because that's what it's all about, writing and playing music. All the rest, although important, is secondary in comparison to this.

song. But it doesn't have influences on the musical aspect of the song-writing process yet. A song has got to have its own structure and should therefore disregard the vocal arrangement.

The band have been together a few years now, besides a change in singer is this current line up the same one that began this journey in 2009?

HOLGER: No - in the current line up Rene, Lars and myself are the only guy left from the original line up, so alot has happened during our time. With Kai, we already have our third drummer. The first drummer Aggi has gone abroad into another country for professional reasons. Our second drummer Jan had left us because of family commitments. Furthermore, we had to separate us from the original bassist and vocalist of the due to personal differences. The current line up consists in this formation since early 2012. The first joint concert in this current line up was played on the 70.000 Tons of Metal. Our current line-up is the best we've ever had, we understand each other blindly and there is no reason to change the current line up again. The band is a tight-knit community in which everyone contributes and works hard to be successful and also carry the name Sapiency in the world.

If for some horrible reason Metal was outlawed in your homeland of Germany, is there anywhere you guys would move to and have a base to continue your careers?

SEBASTIAN: Hmm, first countries that comes to my mind are the Scandinavian countries, where our type of music is very popular and indeed accepted by the majority of people who are living there.

Moreover, musicians are government-funded in Scandinavia! But what I have heard from friends and colleagues many times is that the most enthusiastic and craziest fans you can imagine are living in South America . When you look at the temperatures and hours of sunshine in the Scandinavian countries I would clearly decide for South America!

Who would you cite as the biggest influences on the bands sound, European or US bands?

HOLGER: This question is hard to answer in a short way. The six members were influenced by various bands and different styles of music. In addition, during the years everyone’s favorites have significantly changed. To count all that great bands How about the writing process for Sapiency, from the classic Heavy Metal to Power Metal or does having two vocalists mean that you have to more brutal stuff like Death Metal would probably be do things slightly different than to if you only too much. It's important for us to mention a few had the one singer? bands here that are influencing and fascinating us all KRSTO: The big advantage is the huge range of the time Killswitch Engage, As I Lay Dying, Soilwork, diversity you are able to do with two vocalists. So Five Finger Death Punch, Arch Enemy, The Agonist there are many variations of vocal arrangements in a and of course many, many more.

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Ed Warby Speaks to Stoodge Mc Nulty

III The Rommel Chronicles began to take shape in the second half of 2012 when Hail of Bullets started writing songs for their third album which sees the band approaching things a bit differently lyrically and music wise. Instead of describing a certain campaign or theatre of war, this album focuses on the military life, rise and fall of German field marshal Erwin Rommel. The bands drumming engine Ed Warby tells Stoodge all about the new album and sheds some light on a possible 10 disc boxset that the band will release if World peace is ever achieved...don't be waiting on it though.

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So your new record 'III The Rommel Chronicles' came out on 29th October on Metal Blade Records. What's your honest opinions and thoughts on the album now that it's been out for a couple weeks?

That's like asking a father for his honest opinion on his newborn son... well, his ears are a little big, and he's kinda funny-looking... said no father ever. So if you want a really honest opinion you'll have to ask me again in a few years, for now I can only say I'm as satisfied as a compulsive perfectionist can be, I heard it about 10.000 times too many over the past few months and I'm both sick to death and extremely proud of it! It always takes me a while to let go of an album, the months between delivering the master and the actual release always make me feel like George Lucas, wanting to change little details, to make it "better", yet unlike him I don't have the means to keep revisiting and tweaking so I'll have to... let go. Which is hard every time, if it wasn't for deadlines I'd probably still be working on the first album. Almost there, almost... but anyway, I'm pleased with the way it turned out, the reviews are great (a third album is always under closer scrutiny than your debut, but we seem to hold up well), sales are great, couldn't be happier.

This is the third Hail Of Bullets album and the lyrical content and concept of this album is slightly different from your past releases. Can you tell us about the story behind this album?

At first glance it may seem like HoB doing yet another concept album, but the difference lies in the approach: instead of dealing with a certain battlefield or theater of war we've now chosen to tell the story of one man, general Erwin Rommel.

This makes the album both smaller and larger in scope, more intimate yet more widescreen, if that makes sense. We follow Rommel from his initial successes in the first World War through the African campaign and finally his involuntary suicide. If anything it's a great story to do an album about, Martin had so much to write about we could've easily done an old-fashioned double album but I don't think the world is ready for a death metal opus like that yet...

historically and factually accurate. Like I said the hardest part is usually whittling down all this information to 10 song lyrics, keeping them entertaining and not just dry accounts of historic events.

When exactly did the fascination of warfare begin?

With me it's been there for as long as I can remember, I used to play with Action Men dolls when I was a kid and instead of the usual outfits mine were all dressed up as German soldiers (they had the best looking uniforms to me), and I loved those old war movies like Guns Of Navarone and A Bridge Too Far. I know a lot of people are split in their opinions on Lemmy and the late Jeff Hanneman's collections of Nazi memorabilia.

What's your thoughts on the collection of that kind of stuff?

I don't see the harm in it, I'm quite sure neither Lemmy nor Jeff is a Nazi and I can fully relate to the fascination they have with those items. We're all fascinated by the dark side, at least us (death) metal fans are, and our history doesn't get much darker than that. To me there's a big difference between fascination and conviction, just by the amount of attention we give to WWII one could easily label us morally questionable, but if you spend more than 10 seconds with one of us you'll realize you couldn't be farther from the truth.

You must have received some strange stuff from fans in the past too right?

Sometimes people come up to us and show their grandfather's medals, things like that, pretty cool really. But we don't get to keep them, as far as I can remember we've never been given anything with historical value like that no.

Is their any events from past Wars that you refuse to write a song about?

Well, I can't look into Martin's mind but I think he'd shy away from writing about the gas chambers or concentration camps, no Sabaton-esque "open the gates, Auschwitz awaits" from us. It's just too easy to slip into the realm of really, really bad taste. And I can also imagine that more recent wars aren't something he'd like to write about, if only because the truth is so obscured by layers and layers of political lies (which may well be a pleonasm).

How do these ideas come about, I mean do you guys go to reading books before writing or is this all stuff that you've learned some time ago?

Martin is our master lyricist and he has vast knowledge of the events he writes about, but once he decides on a subject he totally immerses himself in it until he knows every little detail, he All you guys are involved in other projects really prides himself on his lyrics being including Asphyx and Thanatos. Have these

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bands been put on hold for the time being and this there 100% commitment into Hail Of Bullets right now?

Asphyx and HoB co-exist happily, we have a combined band agenda and share a booking agent so both bands are active at the same time without any problems. If planning calls for it we'll even travel to a certain festival together, which is fun, but we don't want to become a two for one kinda package deal so those trips are limited.

Thanatos is gearing up for a new album to be recorded next year I think, so by the time the HoB warmachine grinds to a halt after leveling the 2014 summer festivals I imagine they'll get down to it. But for now HoB has everyone's full attention, that goes without saying.

seem to have a good sense of humor about us being the "heir to their throne" or whatever people like to say. They'll go "we want our riffs back, ye bastards!", and tell us what a drunken sod Martin is (like we don't know that already).

No seriously, I have no idea if that's even remotely possible, probably not since we all have jobs that don't really allow for any long term touring.

Well thanks a lot for doing this interview with us, I've just got one more question before we conclude. If somehow someday the World finds World Peace would that result in added difficulty for Hail Of Bullets to compose music?

Good question, but since we write about things I've been thinking that it would be great to see that already happened I don't think we'll run out Hail Of Bullets, Bolthrower and Pestilence on of inspiration soon. Mankind has an extensive tour together. Could this happen sometime history of trying to wipe each other out for myriad and would it even be possible to execute? reasons, so we'll celebrate that World peace The first two, maybe, but the third would be a when it comes with a commemorative box set of little bit of a problem I suppose. Not up to me ten albums, each devoted to a different war! I can really, Martin is the one closely connected to both easily say that since it'll never happen anyway, Bolt Thrower and Pestilence. All I know is that man likes to wage war a little too much I'm we've run into Bolt Thrower a few times and they afraid...

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Lee Walker speaks to Alex Strapoli Of

Ahead of the new album from symphonic metal giants Rhapsody Of Fire Alex takes time out to discuss the infamous split with Luca Turilli, the brand new album ‘Dark Wings Of Steel’ and what the future holds for this tenacious band.

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Thank you for taking the time out for an interview. I know that you have been doing a lot of press for the album release lately. Have you been happy with the way it has gone?

“Very happy! And, thanks for asking. There's been a lot of talk and questions about 'ROF' lately, and it’s really good to see. The promotional trip was a success. I've met so many people, all really excited about the new album. And, I'm so looking forward to see it released now.”

You guys have been on the go since the early 90s.

Has the band changed much since it first started?

“To answer that, I would probably have to write a book!

Ha Ha! It was always all about enthusiasm and visions.

After each production, we were so very excited and always started talking about what to do next. The main goal was to do something we would be proud of, even after decades.”

When you had the issues which resulted in the change of name for the band, you seemed to come back much stronger than you were before; now with the Luca Turilli split and the formation of ‘Luca Turilli’s Rhapsody’ can we expect the same again?

“The split created different feelings amongst the fans and the media. Some people say that the 'magic' is not there anymore; other people that they are happy because now they have two bands to listen to….. I am quite excited now to be honest; it was not my ultimate desire to compose music by myself but it happens to be a very satisfying task. I do my best to create new music and to create albums that can be listened to years from now. I’ve already got the next album in mind and some great ideas. I'm happy to share all this with all the band members. Working with Fabio and recording his vocals was fantastic. To hear drums and bass finally recorded was great too, not to mention the heavy guitars from Roby; the heaviest guitars of all time on a Rhapsody Of Fire studio album……”

You are about to release that latest album ‘Dark Wings of Steel’, as you say, through AFM records later this month. How did this album come together?

“Rhapsody Of Fire really did choose the label that was really interested in this band. AFM was the right label to start a working relationship with for the future. And, I am very happy so far. We released the 'LIVE - From Chaos To Eternity' double live album first, and all was cool. Looking forward to see the new album being released now.”

“As producer it was my duty and true mission to make "Dark Wings Of Steel" sound the best way possible. ‘DWOS' was composed and arranged in the last few years by my brother Manuel Staropoli and I. Same blood, same spirit.”

“Roby De Micheli was also very important for us. He wrote some fantastic guitar riffs and guitar solos. I am really happy to call him a friend and a

stable member of our band. Not many people know that Roby was already in the band originally, when Luca and I started making music many, years ago, so he is no stranger at all.”

“I wrote and arranged all the orchestral material as always. We used the Macedonian Radio Symphonic Orchestra - F.A.M.E.'S Project - Skopje. It was a very emotional moment to hear an orchestra recording parts for a Rhapsody Of Fire album again.”

Are there any specific processes you go through with regards to creating an album?

“Not really. I have often started to compose songs from guitar riffs, from choruses, verses, orchestral parts; from playing around with new sounds of different kinds, and this one was very similar. My brother Manuel started this time composing some songs playing his bass, that's really cool. I improvise a lot and tend to not schedule almost anything but it is really important for me to have a vision, to know what I want and what kind of sound I want, etc.”

In terms of the album itself I couldn’t help but notice the gothic inspired artwork on the cover.

Was this commissioned specifically for the album?

“Of course! It could not be done differently. Felipe Machado, who created the last few pieces of artwork for 'ROF', was asked to continue doing the job and he did a great job…. I sent him a rough sketch I’d done and started from there. I needed a strong cover artwork and a very magic booklet; you will see it soon.

The digipack and the vinyl versions are just fantastic.”

How does this album compare to your previous releases such as ‘Legendary Tales’, ‘Rain Of A Thousand Flames’, ‘From Chaos To Eternity’ etc?

“Every 'ROF' album has its own story and position. It is possible to compare all of them, of course, but this needs a lot of effort because it's not so simple. All the albums are truly unique and special to me and surely to the fans as well. What I can say is that for 'Dark Wings Of Steel' I wanted to write actual songs, more accessible music. I have decided to avoid long suites for example and to avoid too much technical, complicated parts.”

Do you have any favourite tracks on the album?

“Very difficult to pick up a track. If I start I’ve got to continue by giving you all the song titles, because they’re all as important. “Custode Di Pace” is definitely an outstanding piece, musically and lyrically…….”

Once the album is released what are your plans?

“Promoting it even more and of course releasing news about future touring. We will probably start in Europe, at the beginning of 2014. We are ready. With the actual 5 band member line up, we are ready to play anytime, anywhere.”

Are there any messages that you would like to pass on to your fans?

“I really hope to see you all when we come back touring!! Thanks for being so supportive!!”

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Gaz speaks to Stoodge Mc Nulty

Following the success of their debut album 'Welcome To The Institution' British prog-metallars Promethium are back with their latest offering, the highly anticipated and electric 'Origins'.

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Stoodge speaks to Gaz the lungs of the band about the new album, their Halloween festivities and well......a denim fetish.

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So guys how have things been recently?

Great! the album has been well received and we are getting a ton of airplay and some fantastic reviews.

You played a couple of gigs around Halloween, how did they go?

Both really well. Halloween night was fun lots of awesome costumes. Sat 2nd Nov was a showcase for the Lesfest 2014 organisers. We were picked from over 100 applications to be in the last 8. It was a great night.

Although I don't think it would be to comfortable up there clad in some awkward garments, were you in the spirit of Samhain and did you all dress up?

I had a Walter White costume all set up from Breaking Bad complete with bags of blue crystal meth but it was a bit of a rush getting set up so I didn't actually wear it.

there. It's not a million miles away but we felt we have grown as a band.

There's going to be people reading this that are unfamiliar with the band. Can you give us some background history of the band?

We have been together for 6 years a meltdown of other bands brought us together in out home town of Lancaster. We like old school metal and a lot of new bands too so we set aboit taking that old school style and throwing new tricks in there from time to time. The result is fairly progressive but we love it.

Outside of music is there any strange yet fascinating facts about any of the band that we should be aware of?

Dan our guitarist has a denim fetish......he is trying to get a denim guitar but he is struggling

You'll be glad to know it's now time for a What's it like to get out and unleash the new scenario question. You guys are holed up in a studio recording an album, whilst busy at material on audiences?

We've been playing a couple of them for a while work a toxic gas is released into the O Zone layer resulting in everyone on Earth to now. But now that the songs are out there its great. People know them and sing along which is disappear without a trace. Unaware of this you finish recording the album and leave the the greatest feeling. studio to celebrate. Being oblivious to what has happened what do you guys do?

It must feel fresh also being able to drop Get in the van and in line with our age, comment some of the older tracks for the new ones on how quiet the roads are before going home to right? our families and getting the slippers on......not Yeah it really is. We only had 10 tracks on the very rock n roll. On eventually finding out that first album and it lasted about 35 minutes so everyone has disappeared though we might have that's all we could play. People would ask if we could play more and we'd be like that's all we got to have some fun..... man. But its nice now because we have more freedom over what style the set takes with more A few festivals have already been announcing line up for next summer. Is the festival circuit tracks to choose from. something that appeals to you?

Yes we are currently working on getting on a few There is a high amount of energy that seeps of them so fingers crossed we maybe have some from your new album 'Origins' is this news soon something you regret before going on stage knowing you're going to have to kill yourself out there to project the same power live than If there were two bands, one past and one present that you could go on a World Tour in the studio?

No man I love it. I'm one of those guys ' always in with who would it be? the pit, the music just propels me to move. I only Old band for me would be Pantera. They were just the masters of the heavy mix between slow really feel it the next morning cos I'm getting on and fast. Phil Anselmo is a legend for me. now.

Current band would probably be Lamb of God. They are so powerful and heavy when they came In regards to 'Origins' how removed from along they just blew me away and the rest of the your debut 'Welcome To The Institution' is guys in the band too. your latest record?

It's a good progression forward in terms of writing but the staple guitar riffs and high energy are still

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Tracie Law

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Speaks to Lee Walker Firebrand After Dark 01

How did Symphony of Pain form?

I (Tracie Law) formed Symphony back in '96 after playing the gig circuit with L.O.Girls, Steevi Jaimz and Beki Bondage. I wanted to be a songwriter not just a band player, so my then girlfriend bought me an acoustic guitar and got me on a music course in MI London. There I met JP, a guitarist from a band called No Sweat. He taught me to write songs with hooks and melody - he had a great ear for it and was a big inspiration. I did a demo with a few musician friends on a 4 track machine and put it on cassette tape - vintage stuff! At the same time, I was really getting into classical music, and I had a big thing about the violin in particular - maybe it's because when I was at school, they threw me out of the violin class cause I was left handed. Anyway, for me, the violin was an important part of the Symphony sound, especially where you'd traditionally expect a guitar solo.

I kept asking mates to play in the band but there were always issues, mostly with guitarists who didn't like playing 2nd fiddle to the violin, lol! So I really struggled to keep a stable line up and it cost me a lot of time just recruiting musos over and over. I did manage to record 3 EPs and a Single between '97-'06 though…. Unfortunately EPs have no sale value or marketability when you're going it alone. It was a mistake in hindsight, but time and money were a factor. However, in 2002 I met Pam (Chowhan) when I was as good as on my own with the project, owing to personal hassles and line-up issues. Pam became, and still is, the other half of SOP. She is invaluable as she came entirely from a classical background, but she totally loved the music I was trying to produce, and embraced it, bringing her incredible musical knowledge, talent & violin / keyboard skills into the mix. It's fair to say without Pam, I probably wouldn't have carried on. We go through thick and thin together. We are Symphony of Pain.

For your latest release you were joined by Dave Dart, Nick Taylor and Liz Sweetland. How did they become a part of the project?

We'd met guitarist Dave on the gig circuit. We played a few shows with his band Kyrbgrinder and got to know him from there. We got on well with all those guys and Dave lived near to our bassist Diane Fox so they knew each other too. Dave first came on board in 2009 when our then guitarist cancelled a gig with just 48 hours to go. I don't like cancelling gigs so Diane suggested we use Dave. He dug us out of that hole, and after that he agreed to record the heavy guitar parts on “Hydeology.”

Nick was in the band from 2005-06 but sadly when he returned to his day job, it meant the band had to give. However, we had managed to record some of his lovely acoustic guitars, so we used them on “Hydeology” as well. We've sadly lost touch with Nick, but we hope we can let him know somehow he's on the album.

Liz came from Pam's world. They were

colleagues and mates at one of London's main arts centres, and I'd also worked with Liz on the production side of the music industry. She's not just a vocalist - she's a trumpet player and actress as well, and we see her as our own Sister Mary Queensryche). She was a real trooper; when we recorded her, we were so cramped for space, she had to sing her parts in the bathroom with one foot in the shower, lol!

How do you see Symphony of Pain progressing? Will it remain as primarily you and Pam or will it grow into a full band?

We decided after the last painful split with our then drummer and guitarist, that it's easier for us to work on our own as a duo, and just bring session guys in for live gigs. Apart from guitars, we can record pretty much all the parts ourselves, and it's no stress because we have the same understanding and musical goals. But live, we will be a 5-piece: drums, guitar, bass, vocals and violin/keyboards, and now that the album's out, we're aiming to get onto some Festivals next year.

“Hydeology” is quoted as being 3 years in the making. How long did the album actually take to release?

In reality, it started in 2008. The aforementioned drummer and guitarist persuaded me to let them record their parts separately in their home country where they could use a friend's recording studio for free. In hindsight, it was a disastrous decision, but at the time I was under immense personal pressure, having been threatened with eviction by an unscrupulous new landlord, and wasn't really able to focus wholly on the band. After a long and traumatic saga, I won the battle to stay and could turn my attention again to music. But by that time, the overseas recording was done, and we had got back 5 DVDs of musical files from the guys. They'd recorded 12 songs, with approx 13 channels of drums and 6 channels of guitar - but they had made two colossal and baffling mistakes. They hadn't named any of the files and worst of all they hadn't started them at zero on the music programme time line. It was impossible to work with the files - we had massive amounts of information that we just couldn't fit together. It was like having a 1,000-piece jigsaw with no picture on it.

Besides this, the drums were nothing like we had written, and meant we'd have to change bass lines to fit. It was a serious F*** up, and sadly, the resultant and understandable bad feeling meant that was the end of that line up, and the album was at that point dead in the water. Desperate measures were required if we were to progress, so I decided to buy a Roland electronic kit, learn the drum parts and record them myself. This was when we started to be more of a duo and obviously it took time for me to learn a new instrument. Meanwhile Dave was recording the guitars at his place but he was having equipment issues and the whole process started to drag on.

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In between all this I needed to record vocals for some of the songs and we were invited by Alan Caves (engineer for Sabbath, Magnum, UB40 and many more) to his studio to record vocals for 3 songs, ‘Mister Hyde’, ‘Am I Dreaming’ and ‘Kiss The Bride’. We loved the results and it gave us much needed impetus to continue. Then finally in 2010/11, the album was recorded, mixed and ready for mastering - or so we thought...., because I then crossed paths with Mark Bloxsidge (ex-Trilogy). Mark is heavily involved in sound production at a premier London concert hall and after listening to the album, he told me straight that though the songs were great, the production really wasn't. He volunteered to help produce, and we're so glad he did, because he really took the songs to another level. Mark has amazing ears - we call him Batman now, lol. But, joking aside, he was crucial to the finished sound, somehow managing to bring out clarity of sound without sacrificing warmth, and his attention to detail was immense. But it meant yet another year passed, as we picked over each individual track, until finally we really were ready for mastering. Enter the extraordinary Tim Turan (Turan Audio) who, along with Mark, applied the final polish and brought “Hydeology” to life.

Hydeology” was originally released as a download in November 2012, but both Pam and I felt somewhat underwhelmed by the idea of the download medium. We wanted a real CD and so we started looking at artwork cover design - something I tackled myself with advice from former Skin Two magazine designer, Michael Fearnley, who taught me a lot about keeping things simple, crisp, clear and to the point - something this interview isn't because I can yak for England, lol! I also discovered online a very powerful and unsettling photograph of a Victorian mental asylum by Phill Davison, which Phill kindly agreed we could use. I superimposed equally disturbing pictures of Pam and myself on the image for the CD centrefold, and then we got the CD pressed up by Tim Turan. (Oh, but if only we could have afforded vinyl because that's my passion, big album covers to do real justice to that centrefold and that unbeatable analogue sound!) The hard copy was recently released through Plastichead.com on 28 Oct 13, and is now available through various channels, including Amazon, meaning we finally have product out there that we are personally very proud of.

we do it after all!

How would you describe the album?

Interesting question because we're not actually sure, lol! It's quite dramatic, dark melodic rock with some classical instrumentation, eg; strings, choirs, organ, piano, harpsichord, violin, plus a fair peppering of electronics & FX. Many reviewers are saying we have gothic overtones although we don't entirely see that, except maybe the clothing we wear on stage. I think we have elements of Queensryche, NIN, Rammstein and Kings X, but there are a lot of other elements coming from Pam's classical background, plus my love of a multitude of rock and metal from the 70's 80' and 90's. Also, advances in technology mean it's possible for us to have access to a whole range of different sounds and samples, so we bring those in as well.

Do you have any favourite tracks on the album?

Several actually. I'm loving ‘Kiss The Bride’ right now cause we just released the video, which has really added to its atmosphere; it's become almost a short Hammer House horror movie. I love its waltz time feel and its dark, menacing broodiness. I also love the eerie ballads ‘Lonely’ and ‘Broken Clown’, and also ‘Mister Hyde’, with its pulsing rhythm and superb violin outro by Pam. I love the whole album right now; maybe the newer tracks have the edge just because they are still fresh, exciting and new to my ears….

With the album finally being released what are your plans? Do you have any tours or festival slots lined up?

We want to go out live next year and tour the album, but we have to sort a band line up for that, which would be drums, bass, and guitar with myself on vocals, and Pam on violin and keys.

Are there any messages that you would like to pass on to your fans?

Just one message, which is, please continue to support us because we cannot advance without your help. Please join the ‘Symphomaniacs’ on Face Book!

(That's our fan club, lol.) If you can buy the album, please do – it’s available on Amazon and from plastichead.com We have 2 videos on YouTube, ‘Am I Dreaming?’ and ‘Kiss The Bride’. And, please recommend them to friends and just play them incessantly till your cat goes insane or Have you been happy with the way that the album the neighbours move out with their hip hop collection was received? make them Feel The Pain for once! lol! Finally, thanks Absolutely yes! It’s all been so positive so far and to all of you who have supported us so far - we truly we're thrilled about that, because the music we create value it. Best wishes; Trace and Pam. is quite unusual, unique even, and it's not easy to pigeonhole it, which people seem to like to do. On the whole, it’s been received very warmly, and we want to thank all the reviewers who have embraced what we do. It's very welcome and so important to believe you're appreciated musically - hell, that's why

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Interview by Stoodge Mc Nulty To change vocalist after writing and recording a full album has disrupted bands in the past, this isn't the case with this now female fronted Doom band from Chicago. Tim (Guitars) and Carlee (Vocals) tell us about the whole process that has actually made the band a stronger unit.

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Hey guys how have things been lately?

Tim - Hey Stoodge! We've been pretty busy lately. The album has just been released and we've been playing a handful of local shows. Since I'm handling all distribution duties, I've had my hands full the past few weeks.

Your new album 'Souls of Charon' is out 10th of November but it was originally going to be released a lot earlier this year. What exactly happened with the launch?

Tim - We had the album finished in May and I had an idea of backing vocals for Trapped Underground. I tried out Carlee for the part, really liked what I heard, and decided to have her demo "United by Darkness". I've always struggled singing and playing guitar live, so ultimately I decided it'd be best if I focused on guitar.

With a new vocalist coming in how was it for the rest of the band having already done their work and now having to wait and extra couple of months for the album to get unleashed?

Tim - I don't think it was too big of a deal. Carlee learned all the songs pretty quick and we all agreed that she's more qualified to handle vocals.It was a good opportunity for us to get real tight as a band and for us to mess around with the mixes.

Carlee, were you involved with the metal scene much prior to joining up with the band in May? Carlee - That's been my life since I was 15 or 16. I've seen countless shows anything ranging from Ozzy at an arena to the local d.i.y. Shows in someones basement. I love going to shows and seeing everyone I know. Not being a Chicago native, this is how I made most of my friends here.

There are a couple of members that have other band and projects including yourself Tim. Can you tell us about these other bands that involve members of Relentless?

Tim - Justin (guitar) and John (bass) both currently play in a Death/Thrash metal band called They Die Screaming. Dan (Drums) plays session drums in numerous projects and has a solo project called Nocturne. I have another band called Deathcult in which I handle guitar/vocals.

Carlee - Although I haven't sang in a band before, I've been singing my whole life from participating in choirs to eventually studying voice in college. My range extends through opera, blues, and rock and roll, giving me my own unique style.

So back to the subject of this interview now and your album. From the six songs on offer what two would each of you say are your favourite and proudest songs on the record?

Tim - My proudest 2 songs would have to be "Forever Damned" and "Final Wishes". "Forever Damned" because the solos in it are probably the best put together, and "Final Wishes" because it was the first song I ever wrote for Relentless, about 5 years ago.

Carlee - "United by Darkness" is a personal favorite and I like "Trapped Underground" a lot. I think the vocal parts are put together the best on these.

With this album having been composed and recorded months ago have there been any new songs written since and added to your arsenal of doom tuneage?

Tim - There's a few new songs I've written, but we've yet to sit down and collaborate as a band.

You have a show coming up with Doom legends 'Pentagram' how excited are you about this opportunity to project your music to what I'm sure will be a packed house full of old school Doom heads.

Tim - We're all pretty big Pentagram fans and our band name was taken from the first Pentagram record, so we're all pretty excited and honored to share the stage with them!

Are there any other bands you aspire to sharing the stage with in the future?

Tim - Sure! Some would have to be Pagan Altar, Cauchemar, Altar of Oblivion, Christian Mistress, Saint Vitus, Borrowed Time, Devil, In Solitude, Blood Ceremony, Apostle of Solitude, High Spirits, Brimstone Coven, and many more!

What's your opinion on the modern doom scene?

Do you think it's as strong as it was twenty years ago?

Tim - I'm 25 years old, so I can't say exactly cause I wasn't there back then, but I think the doom scene is pretty decent these days. Lot of killer bands out there in the U.S., Europe, etc.!

Cheers Tim and Carlee for doing this interview for Firebrand After Dark. Congrats on the album and best of luck in the future. Go and show those Pentagram fans that Doom is still alive and well. If you ever come to Ireland make sure to hit me up.

Tim - Thanks for the interview and support! All you metal freaks out there be sure to support our label Do or Die Records and check out our Facebook page for updates. Cheers!

Is 'Relentless' your top priority at present or have you still got one eye on the goings on with 'Deathcult'?

Tim - There'll be a new Deathcult live lineup and some Facebook.com/RelentlessChicago new material coming out early next year, but DoOrDieRecords.org Relentless is definitely a top priority for me right now.

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Track by Track Chicago's Relentless have just released their debut album 'Souls of Charon' on Do or Die Records. Tim Pearson the bands founder and lead guitarist talks us through the tracks that make up the record.

Trapped Underground - Written about 2 years ago and was almost thrown out. I tried reworking this song a bunch of times and eventually just kept it how it was. The lyrics are based on the actions/ beliefs of Charles Ng and Leanord Lake. They were both serial killers/rapists who created an underground sex bunker in California during the 1980's. There's a line in the song that kind of sums up what once went on in Leonard Lake's mind. Of course I don't condone what they did, but I do find this thought process interesting. "We only live once, so why should we hide. We must embrace our inner desires" Better off Dead - The 3rd song written for this band about 4 years ago. The first half of this song has a punk feel to and has a hard rockin ending. Lyrics deal with suicide, death, and redemption.

Although half of the song is encouraging suicide, I'm only referring to certain people, some that I have encountered in my short life. A moment of inspiration/encouragement would be the last line of the song. "Many times it has been said, that we'd be better off dead. But let me tell you something, Relentless we will be until the very end" United by Darkness - This was the 2nd Relentless song written about 4 or 5 years ago. I think the lyrics are a bit self explanatory. I think the way the vocal parts and the song in general is written out pretty well in this, and there's some cool solos. The vocal has a part where it shines, and there's cool drum breakdown part in the middle. This song was used as a promo song for the album. Join our forces! United by Darkness!

Final Wishes - The 1st song written for Relentless in 2007. Lot of Sabbath influence in this one.

Forever Damned - Lyrically, this is somewhat a prelude to the next song. This song mostly deals with regret and reaping what you sew. This was one of the last songs written for the album in the summer of 2012. The 2nd half of this song is probably my favorite part of the whole album. Killer bass line towards the end of the song. Very uplifting guitar leads and Maiden-esque twin guitar harmonies. Definitely something to expect more of in the future.

Souls of Charon - Like "Forever Damned", this song is one of the ones that was written most recently. This one's a bit more upbeat than the other songs and has a bit of NWOBHM sound in it.

Mythologically speaking, Charon is the ferryman of the Hades, and transfers the recently deceased from the world of the living, to the world of the dead. One must pay him for their soul to rest, and if they didn't have the toll, they'd have to wander the shores for a hundred years. This concept intrigues me and has real-world relevance. For example, not being able to afford a proper burial service, etc. My favourite line from this song is "What we had and what we were worth, was spent on the dreams we sought for warmth"

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By Stoodge Mc Nulty

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Your new EP 'Disambiguated Visionary' has just been released. You guys have described it as your most progressive and heavy work to date. How removed is it from your past records?

It is the first record we have released with Ben Wanders on drums. He’s brought a lot more technicality and jazz influences to the drumming.

Musically, it is like a further progression from our last release. It is more progressive and incorporates more death metal influences and less hardcore. Lyrically we have adapted a different approach also which we feel gives the release of a more creatively cohesive feel. The artwork further binds this together.

Can you tell us about some of the tracks included on the record?

The EP consists of 5 tracks. The 1st track is entitled ‘Mathematically Legitimate Solution’. The lyrical concept is about how humankind will ultimately be the cause of our own downfall. I mean, we wreak the planet we live on, poison the atmosphere that enables us to breathe. Some of these psychopaths that are running governments and giving rights to unethical and corrupt corporate entities throughout the world should think about how they will count their millions while others suffer due to their callous decision making. It’s a non-sustainable concept. There is contrast though, another song from the EP looks at the infinite potential of humankind. If we can just forget the old paradigms of government/ state/church/banks, they are defunct in this day and age; we stand to excel as a species. We can be so much better than what we are!

mid-twenties again (as least until after the show).

Maybe playing death metal is the so-called ‘fountain of youth’.

What about your aspirations, are they different now than to what they were when you first got together?

When we first got together, the goal was to record a good CD, play shows and I suppose get the opportunity to play alongside some of the bigger touring bands that came through Ireland.

These days, we do this for us. The last few years have been a struggle, but I believe you're judged in this life, not by how many times you are knocked down, but by how many times you get back up and persevere. Each record we do is self -financed, written and recorded on our own time frames etc. It allows us a certain control and creative freedom that some bands don’t have.

You've played with a lot of big names over the years including Cattle Decapitation, Hatebreed and Exodus. Is there added pressure to perform and impress when sharing the stage with band of such stature?

Not at all, we approach every show with the same intent. You might get a slight touch of nerves if you’re playing support to a big band that you listen to or whatever, but added pressure, no, I don’t think that applies.

You have done a lot of touring throughout the years. You must have at least one horror story to share?

We have had a few horror stories alright. There have been promoters that have ripped us off, equipment not working just before you hit the The band’s name 'Slave Zero' is that a stage, venues pulling the plug before our set but reference to the Sega Dreamcast computer the moment that stands out the most was when game? we were doing a few dates in Ireland with This is true. I personally prefer to look at our Sanatorium and Abysmal Torment. We were name as a suggestion; we are slaves to no one providing the backline and had a trailer to or no one thing. This enables us to continuous transport it. After the first gig in Dublin we had evolve as a band and with that, each record packed up and just departed the venue. We were sounds different to the last. coming on to O'Connell Street which is one of busiest streets in Dublin when the trailer You've been a consistent figure in Irish Metal dislodges from the car and veers across the since you formed in 2000, would you describe street and crashes into a car. Fortunately no-one yourselves as veterans in Irish Metal? was hurt and the backline was ok. We managed Well, let’s just say we have been around the to hook the trailer back on to the car and the block a few times! The more you do something, show went on for the next few days. We ended the more confident you become. As the years roll up having to fork out hundreds of Euro to cover by, perspective is something that you gain. You the costs but at least no one was hurt and the can label us veterans, I’m not sure that is a tour still happened. description that can be self-applied. Although I am getting older, when we play, I’m back in my

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Back to your EP now. Is this the release that you would recommend to people that haven't heard the brutality of Slave Zero yet?

This release is the latest product of a band that has been together over a decade. Of course, we feel that it is our most accomplished work to date but music is all subjective. Someone who has not heard of us before might pick up this record and whilst they may not dislike it, they could potentially prefer one of the previous recordings we have released. But if you haven’t heard of Slave Zero before, start with this release and work backwards ha ha

Well guys, that was awesome. Should we expect much activity and rumblings from Slave Zero in 2014?

No worries! We are looking forward to getting out of the road and launching the EP. Live performance is an environment in which we enjoy the most! We are going to work on more new material which we have already started on and we may get out and tour but the focus is on the launch for now. Thanks for the interview!

How about Social Media, how has this had an effect on the band? You should know all the pros and cons as you were a band long before the Zuckerberg Empire took over the World.

It has enabled us to broaden our fan base. It also allows you to collect with your audience directly. Musicians now have the power to control their own creations instead of music executives or labels.

What advice would to give to any young bands just starting out in Ireland right now?

Try and come up with original music, create a niche for yourself, look at what your local scene is missing. Learn your craft, spend time on your songs, put the effort in, you reap what you sow.

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Slave Zero Disambiguated Visionary EP Label: Self Released Reviewer: Stoodge Mc Nulty

Released: 10 November 2013 Highlight: Limitless Peripheral Perspective

Website: https://www.facebook.com/slavezeroband

Ever wanted to know what it would feel like to have hydrofluoric acid injected into your blood vessels? Okay maybe that's just me, none the less these five tracks from Dublin's Slave Zero have the tendency to infiltrate your senses in what I theorize to be a resembling manner to the aforementioned experiment.

The band have described this EP as their “most progressive and heavy work to date� which is a statement proven to be accurate as opener 'Mathmatically Legitimate Solution' detonates into action bringing with it purposive drumming, sporadic harvest killing vocals and multivariate fret and string manipulating.

Sciences as a Dean Radin soundclip on Quantum Mechanics ushers in another stupefying dose of irrepressible brutality, and it's that perpetual yet uncontrollable fracas that makes this record so unbound and impressive.

This proficiency is continuously conveyed and the masterful technical ability of these men is evident and widely apparent here in both quality and quantity.

Tracks 'Embroidered Strategy Of Calculated Misrepresent' 'Oscillating Perceptions Of An Abstract Existence' and 'Anthropic Landscape Theory' sound just like their titles suggest in that they're entangled, veracious and strident.

On the second track 'Limitless Peripheral Perspective' we are treated to a lesson in Noetic

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Ireland may not have much in the way of desert but one thing it does have in abundance is bog land. Having recently completed their first World Tour of Ireland Northern Irelands Astralnaut speak to Stoodge about life as a Stoner/Desert band on the Emerald Isle. Would they ship off to pastures new if given the opportunity....or would they go 'Back to The Bog'?

The name 'Astralnaut' is there much of a story behind it or was it just a case of "We need a great name"?

Thomas - When we started jamming back in November 2011 we didn't obsess over the name, we were more concerned with writing music that rocked and which we enjoyed. There was always a feeling that'd we'd make the name. As time passed we started recording and then it became a great matter of debate!

We used to jam, work on songs then during a break banter about names. It was habitual to the point we started to wonder what we'd talk about once we'd found the name! Lucky today we still get milage out of the topic and laugh at some of the unused concoctions! Pearse(rhythm guitar) still holds out hope for 'Slug Hunter' but it was to be Astralnaut. Astralnaut was actually one of the first names suggested. It was fairly organic just one of those stoned play on words that was bandied about while we worked on riffs!

As important as the name is, being a representation or an initial impression of us in one word, I like to think that 'a rose by any other name would rock just as hard' if you get my meaning!

Pearse - An Astralnaut is someone that travels regularly on the astral plane of existence, be it through lucid dreaming, astral projection or out-of -body experiences. I have always suggested that spirituality will be the new occult, evident with many artistic references towards enlightenment/ awakening surfacing in recent years and also considering that both subjects have highly esoteric roots. The adoption of all things satanic by small groups of metallers/rockers was a way to act contrarian towards an existing, antiquated system and display the fact that you denounce their rule or indeed existence. Though this is not what we directly address by calling the band Astralnaut, (as Tom said whilst improving on Shakespeare there) the name means very little in relation to the music.

You recently completed your 'World Tour of Ireland' stint playing 8 shows in 8 days across the country. How was that for an experience?

Thomas - It was brilliant! A really fantastic

experience, which we all really enjoyed. We met some awesome people along the way who dug the music and understood what we're about.

People really got behind us, came out to see us and support us. Plus we got to see parts of the country that we've never saw before and the hospitality we received was second to none, we can't thank the people who helped us along the road enough!

Of course the tour wasn't without its trials but there was no major upsets or anything we couldn't handle. Stephen (drums) did lose the legs of his floor tom on the first night but a few fire pokers and a lot of hack sawing the problem was solved. It was a true test of our cohesion as a band, our abilities and stamina. One of the big challenges I felt was the tiredness. Between lack of sleep, being on the road as well as some heavy drinking it was tough work and we've definitely learned some lessons. We relished the experience though and we'll be drawing on it for the future. 2014 is a brand new year of opportunity and we're all looking forward to doing it again!

Pearse - A highlight for me was headlining a bill at Radar in The Speakeasy Bar, Belfast. It was a great chance to see the support that is ever increasing for us in Belfast. Well, this and the fact that we all agreed at the end of the tour we could have done another 8 days, no bothers! That for me was a personal highlight, knowing we can get along for an extended period of time, not kill each other and still want more.

How do work schedules with members affect and limit the bands plans, has there been a few sacrifices made to keep the Astralnaut mammoth breathing?

Thomas - Its different for each of us but as with most aspects of life the key thing is balance. Astralnaut is a high priority for all of us but there's got to be give and take. Between us there's work, school, family, kids, wife(s), girlfriends, dogs plus a host of other pastimes and interests, musical or otherwise.

I'm lucky as I'm self-employed and I have an understanding girlfriend who knows I'm passionate about playing music. I wouldn't like to say things suffer or get sacrificed because of the

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band but rather there’s some strategic prioritisation taking place! A certain amount of juggling happens and rank maybe pulled on occasion but we try not to lose sight of the important things in our lives as a whole. As the mammoth moves onwards and upwards things may change but we hopefully be able to maintain the happy balance we currently have!

any band for that matter if the existence of the internet was no more?

Thomas - With regards the online interaction, I think that’s a lot to do with our personalities.

Obviously interaction is helpful in building a following and spreading the good news so to speak but it’s also the kind of people we are.

Some bands try to build mystic, to a certain point that works and is effective in its own right.

You have already released 2 EP's 'Back to Personally, being a fan of music also, I want The Bog' and your most recent offering 'In people/bands that are real and down to earth, The Gaze of The Gods' will any of this that human touch gives you a connection to a material make it onto your first full length band beyond the music. album?

If the internet ceased to be, we'd still interact with Thomas - That'll really depend on the our fans before, after, during the show, it circumstances at the time. We currently have a happens, it’s just that the whole world can't see it system that works for us in that we can put out as easily. But without the internet we'd lose a top quality music, in a relatively short period of valuable tool! We have a dual approach in that time, while still working to our own time scales we want to get out and play to as many people as and budget. That’s why we've started working on possible but in addition to that we maintain a EP No.3! This should be ready early 2014. strong online presence. It’s a combination of a The EP format seems to be working for us. new school and an old school mentality, online Because of the internet, music to a certain and live! degree has become disposable and in the This is because the internet has changed computer age people’s attention spans seem to and continues to change things in music! Things be getting ever shorter. With an EP we can like the written press, large music labels and the benefit, having a slightly shorter release but high street chain record store have witnessed a happening more frequently plus we're working change in trends which have reduced the within our means. Keeping in mind that both our dominance these institutions have enjoyed for EPs are around 30mins each so we still have a decades! The internet has given an amount of healthy body of work out there plus people like power to unsigned and independent bands/ the music so it'll stand the test of time. labels. We can access low cost media and In terms of the songs making it onto a full advertising, sell our merchandise, self-produce, length album, we've actually been playing the network, organise tours and gigs all through the songs from both EP's, excluding 'The Hallion', internet. The internet makes unsigned music since before we begun gigging in 2012 so to more accessible for everyone! revisit, reuse or revise at this point would feel for us like a bit of a step backwards. That said, I What would your ideal gig be? Venue, wouldn't rule anything out, who knows what the support bands etc... future holds but we started the band to make Thomas - One of my favourite venues has been music. We are constantly progressing, improving the Speakeasy in Belfast, we got to play there our songs, our sound and how we play. We with Red Fang at the start of the summer! If you'd already have a bunch of new songs that have have asked me before that, I'd probably have been getting the live test on our recent tour! This said that was ideal! To be completely indulgent in has been really refreshing for us and there’s fantasy I'd love share a huge stage with Black plenty more new stuff in the works.

Sabbath(with Bill Ward), Kyuss(with Josh), Down Our next EP is going to be a beast and I (with Kirk), Sleep and maybe throw in Pentagram strongly suspect our best to date! Until its ready just for good measure! We would happily open though our first two EP's are available that show! from astralnaut.bandcamp.com, there’s free But back in reality, there are some fantastic downloads and t-shirts galore so if you haven't Irish bands that we're really looking forward to heard you should! gigging with! November 29th we're playing in Derry with Tusks(Belfast stoner rock) and Crafty You dudes are heavily involved with Fuzz(funky fuzz from Dublin)! Two awesome interacting with your fans on Facebook, how bands! We'll also be back down in Galway in different would things be for Astralnaut or December playing with Weed Priest

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(Galway hypnotic trippy doom) plus others. In the new year we'll be putting together some ideal Irish stoner rock gigs for sure! Anyone who’s interested in that, keep up to date with what’s going on gig wise on our Facebook.

What came first Tony Iommi or The Metal?

Thomas - Trick question, Iommi is metal! Haha!

It’s like this, which came first the chicken or the egg? Arguably you could say the chicken evolved from some form of lizard, not that Iommi is either but what we consider metal today evolved from something that was bigger than one man. The entity we know as metal is made up of so many different influences, a result of so many different personalities and environments. I couldn't say without doubt that if there was no Tony Iommi there would be no such thing as metal! But if there was no Tony Iommi, Astralnaut would not sound the same today that’s for sure.

Tony himself said in his book that Geezer was a huge part of Sabbath's wall of sound! Tony is obviously important but so was the rest of Sabbath!

I once heard Al from Om/Sleep say that 'Sabbath is a moot point', I'd agree in that, their influence is evident in bands that have influenced us and the music that we play. You asked earlier how it would affect us if the internet ceased to exist; we could survive without the internet but

without Sabbath!? That’s a whole different story!

Pearse - Metal definitely came first. Tony Iommi was a cool dude that wrote some life-changing riffs at the right time but metal is most definitely a firm social ethos. Around the time Zeppelin and Sabbath were about people were pissed off, post -war, post-depression, the advent of the teenager, socio-economic decline were all contributing factors to the rise of such a prolific subculture. People were angry and given the fact art reflects society it was inevitable that an aggressive form of expression would emerge and develop. Metal was very much the concept (though probably unnamed), the music merely went hand in hand and Iommi was there at the right time. For all we know the best metal bands were playing down the road from yer granny and never made it out of the garage. Most of us tend to forget this in the wake of popular music and big labels. In saying this, Iommi’s work has had profound effects on our societal climate, heavy metal being one of the biggest and most tribal sub-cultures around. And not to mention the decades of music this man’s presence has influenced and the expanse of sub-genres that have developed as a result of those musicians listening to Black Sabbath as kids. Although, Jon Joe (bass) may disagree and claim this was a trick question, his answer being: “Iommi IS metal!”

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Metal vids to sink your teeth into There have been soo many great videos popup during the last month but after much debate here are the top 5 music videos currently doing the rounds in the After Dark dungeon. If you have any thoughts about these, feel free to get in touch at afterdark@fbrr2010.com

1 2 3 4 5

Satyricon Phoenix Leaves’ Eyes Hell To The HEavens Die Krupps Risikofaktor Psychostick Obey The BEard Protest The Hero Clarity Firebrand After Dark 01

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Get ready racing aficionados, zombie slayers, sports fans, warriors and entertainment lovers. The Xbox team is planning one of the biggest entertainment premieres of the year to celebrate the launch of Xbox One with Xbox fans around the world, when it launches next Friday, Nov. 22.

In a spectacular worldwide countdown, global launch celebrations will usher in a new generation of games and entertainment alongside Xbox fans around the world, who have been eagerly waiting more than eight years for the next generation of the most popular games console with 80 million Xbox 360 consoles sold worldwide.

More than 10,000 retail locations in 13 countries will open their doors at 12:01 a.m. on Nov. 22 to welcome fans amidst great fanfare. Festivities will kick off in major cities around the world, starting in Auckland, NZ and continuing through Sydney, London, New York City and Los Angeles, uniting fans who have come together to celebrate the availability of Xbox One. The celebrations will be showcased in a live broadcast airing on Spike TV, beginning at 11 p.m. ET/8 p.m. PT, also on Xbox.com and on Xbox Live.

“Today we invite millions of Xbox fans around the world to join us for the launch of Xbox One, beginning on Nov. 21 as we count down the final hours to the launch of Xbox One,” said Yusuf Mehdi, Corporate Vice President of Marketing and Strategy. “Xbox One will be the biggest launch in the history of Xbox and we can’t wait to celebrate with our fans.”

Marquee global launch events are planned in major cities worldwide, including New York City, Los Angeles, London, Berlin, Paris, Vienna, Sao Paulo, Toronto and Sydney.

Epic Fan Celebrations Planned in NYC and LA In the U.S., the ultimate midnight celebration will take place in Times Square in New York City. The world of Xbox One will come to life as zombies, Roman soldiers and supercars converge on the Best Buy Theater, where awaiting fans will be among the first in America to receive their consoles and countdown to midnight with great games, entertainment and special surprises.

The pinnacle of the evening will be a performance by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis in the Best Buy Theater, attended by 1,000 lucky fans who will experience the ultimate Xbox One launch. The first 1,000 people in line outside the Best Buy Theater in Times Square who purchase an Xbox One or Xbox One game will enjoy the concert in-person and the opportunity to enjoy special gameplay experiences with Forza Motorsport 5, Ryse: Son of Rome, Dead Rising 3, Killer Instinct, and other Xbox One game titles.

Special guests will be present, including Stallion83, who is nearly achieving a 1 million Xbox Live Gamerscore and developer partners from some of the most hotly anticipated Xbox One games.

On the west coast, Xbox fans I n Los Angeles are invited to make history at Milk Studios, which will be transformed into a gamer haven, with gameplay stations for Forza Motorsport 5, Ryse: Son of Rome, Dead Rising 3, Killer Instinct, and other Xbox One game titles. Fans will countdown to midnight amidst killer games, entertainment and special surprises. The first 500 people to purchase an Xbox One or Xbox One game will enjoy an exclusive concert with

deadmau5.

If you’re eighteen or older, make sure to get to the Best Buy Theater in NYC’s Times Square and Milk Studios in LA early. Pre-purchase begins at 8 a.m. in NYC and 10 a.m. in LA. Doors open at 9 p.m. in NYC and 6 p.m. in LA. For more information, go toxbox.com/launch.

Over 10,000 Midnight Madness Events Planned Around the World Retailers around the world are planning exciting activities to celebrate with Xbox fans – ranging from free giveaways to entertainment on-site to visual spectacles – all in celebration of Xbox One. Retail partners including Best Buy, EB Games, FNAC, Gameans, GameStop, Media Mrkt, Sam’s Club, Saturn, GAME and Tesco will be keeping their doors open past midnight for fans to purchase their Xbox One. In the U.S., fans can check with any of these retailers to participate in their Midnight Madness events: Best Buy, GameStop, Walmart and the Microsoft retail store. Also, fans are invited to show off their gaming prowess by entering one of the midnight Killer Instinct tournaments in six select Microsoft stores, full details here, in addition to celebrations at all of their more than 75 retail locations.

Worldwide Spectacles Will Drive Midnight Frenzy Launch night officially kicks off in New Zealand where, in partnership with EB Games, Xbox will throw a massive Midnight Madness event at Shed 10 in Auckland for fans, partners and press to play Xbox One launch titles, enjoy music and DJ sets and enter to win an Xbox One. Shortly after, Australia will light up the iconic Sydney Harbour for the launch of Xbox One. With the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House as a backdrop, Xbox will host a midnight event to celebrate with fans.

As launch night continues across the globe, some of the world’s most iconic cities will be transformed to celebrate the launch of Xbox One. In Europe, gamers, fans and YouTubers alike will gather in Central Paris and Berlin respectively to experience the Xbox One launch line-up. Skin and Emis Killa will help usher in the new generation at an exclusive launch event in Italy, in partnership with MTV, and fans in Spain can play Xbox One games in Madrid’s Colon Square. The UK will celebrate the launch of Xbox One in Central London at an event featuring many surprise performances, celebrity appearances and gameplay. After the live event, attention turns to Area One in London where fans can play Xbox One games while waiting for a special midnight store opening.

Other landmark events are planned in Austria and Ireland counting down to midnight and drawing celebrations with friends, partners and the loyal Xbox community.

And, finishing up its nationwide One Source tour, a colossal Xbox One will make its final stop in Toronto launch night bringing with it surprises, giveaways and more incredible experiences for Canadian gamers.

Xbox One will launch around the world in 13 markets, including the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Australia, New Zealand, UK, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Ireland and Austria.

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SONY COMPUTER ENTERTAINMENT ANNOUNCES A VARIETY OF FEATURES AVAILABLE ON PLAYSTATION 4 (PS4) SYSTEM AT LAUNCH

two ways for users to view live broadcasts.

First, the Live from Playstation Applicatio on PS4 aggregates streams from all Playstation users. Second, users can spectate friends’ PS4 gameplay from PCs, and applications such as Ustream, Twitch, and browsers, which are installed System software update version 1.50 to be released on their mobile devices. These applications can be easily along with the PlayStation 4 system’s North American started up via PlayStation App, and users can also use these launch; features include remote play with the applications to post comments to gameplay broadcasts.

PlayStation Vita system, and game play sharing via the Furthermore, users with PlayStation Camera can stream “SHARE” button that enhance game play experience.

Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCEI) announced camera images and microphone sounds along with their live gameplay broadcast. that it will release system software update version 1.50 for Play as you download This feature enables users to PlayStation 4 (PS) system simultaneously with the official play supported digital titles as they are being downloaded.

North American launch of the system on November 15, When a game is purchased, users can start playing after 2013. By updating to the latest system software version, PS4 downloads a portion of the data, while the rest of the users will be able to enjoy a variety of exciting features from game is downloaded in the background during actual the day of launch. gameplay.

Games may be downloaded in stand-by mode.

The PS4 system was designed from the ground up to Multi log-in A maximum of 4 users can log-in to a ensure that the very best games and most immersive single PS4 system simultaneously.

These players can use experiences reach PlayStation users. It redefines rich and their own save data to play games, and also earn trophies riveting gameplay with powerful graphics and speed, deeply on their own Sony Entertainment Network accounts even integrated social capabilities, and innovative second-screen when playing a multi-player game together on a single PS4 features utilizing devices such as the PlayStation Vita (PS system.

Vita) system. SCE will continue to enhance the PS4 system Party (Voice chat) By using the Mono Headset through future system software updates. bundled with the PS4 system, users will be able to chat with The following features are available on PS4 at North up to eight friends enjoying different applications or games.

American launch: Furthermore, users can use Party to chat between PS4 and Remote Play Users will be able to access PS4 titles PS Vita systems. displayed on their living room TVs and play them on a PS Face recognition and voice commands Users with Vita system over Wi-Fi networks by using PS4 Link. SCE PlayStation Camera will be able to register their facial image anticipates that most PS4 titles will be playable on the PS onto their PS4 system, and login to their system using facial Vita system through Remote Play. recognition instead of DUALSHOCK 4. Furthermore, users Second Screen Users can use the PS4 link can use either the microphone of the Mono Head set application for the PS Vita system, and PlayStation App for connected to DUALSHOCK 4, or PlayStation Camera to iPhone, iPad, and Android based smartphones and navigate through the PS4 home screen (PlayStation tablets, to use these devices as second screens in Dynamic Menu) with voice commands to start up games and supported titles. PlayStation App has the ability to enable shutdown the system, among other features. users to interact with games with their mobiles devices. For Background music player Users can enjoy gameplay example on THE PLAYROOM, a title pre-installed in all PS4 while listening to music in the background with Music systems that requires PlayStation Camera, users can draw Unlimited, a cloud-based digital music service. Users can pictures on their mobile device screens and flick them also voice chat with friends while listening to music. towards the TV. The images then appear as a 3D object Online Multiplayer PlayStation Plus (PS Plus) within the game. members will be able to play PS4 titles online with other Record, take screen shots, and upload gameplay players via the network.

PS Plus makes it easy for members effortlessly The PS4 system provides dedicated, “always to join available online multiplayer matches in a variety of on” video encoding systems that enables seamless ways, including the ability to easily join a game from a live uploading of gameplay. Users can share their epic triumphs stream broadcast or Party voice chats. by simply hitting the “SHARE button” on PS4 Wireless Blu-ray Disc and DVD player Users can enjoy not Controller (DUALSHOCK 4), take screenshots or scan only gaming on their PS4 system, but also Blu-ray and DVD through the last 15 minutes of gameplay, tag it and return to video contents. the game -the video uploads as the user plays. At the PS4 Furthermore, some features will not be available at system’s launch in North America, users will be able to share launch, such as “suspend/resume mode” which is a feature their images and videos with friends on Facebook and that keeps the PS4 system in a low power state and screenshots with followers on Twitter. promptly takes users back to their game. SCE will provide Broadcast and spectate gameplay The PS4 system additional information about system software update version also enhances social spectating by enabling users to 1.50 and features available at the PS4 system’s North broadcast their gameplay in real-time to game fans around America launch, and features that will be available after the globe, using Ustream and Twitch live internet streaming launch, in the near future. services. SCE provides

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Guild Wars 2 The Nightmares Within Latest Living World update unleashes new nightmares; heavy metal video contest gives players chance to win custom Guild Wars 2 guitar NCSOFT® and ArenaNet™, developer of the acclaimed Guild Wars franchise, today announced the latestGuild Wars 2 content update, The Nightmares Within, and the corresponding Rock the Nightmare Music Video Contest, which features a unique 3D-printedGuild Wars 2 guitar as the grand prize.

In the 12th November release, The Nightmare Within, players continue the sinister storyline that began in October’s Tower of Nightmares release. Having unlocked the secret behind the toxic defences surrounding the monolithic Tower of Nightmares, players now can assault the tower itself. But new dangers, frights and challenges await all who dare enter the stronghold of the Toxic Alliance between the reptilian krait and the Nightmare Court.

The most creative videos will win SteelSeries gaming gear and one grand prize winner also will receive a unique 3D-printed Guild Wars 2 guitar from Sygnus Guitars. Winners will be announced on the Guild Wars 2 website on or around Friday, 13th December. More information on the contest, including rules and submission guidelines, can be found atwww.guildwars2.com/ en/community/contests/ New Events · Lingering Poison: Though the Tower of Nightmares has been breached, the Toxic Alliance’s nefarious presence remains. Players will find that Kessex Hills and the surrounding countryside still are befouled by poisonous pollen. · Face The Nightmares Within: Special encounters await players brave enough to enter rooms within the Tower of Nightmares. What will they find? Agents of the evil Scarlet Briar? Or something much more insidious? Only one thing is certain: strength, determination and resilience will be required to survive. · The End of Nightmares?: Marjory Delaqua, the human detective, developed a

special antitoxin to destroy the deadly menace at the heart of the Tower of Nightmares, but the team she dispatched to inject it never returned.

Players will get their chance to pick up the fight and succeed where those before them failed.

New Rewards · Antitoxic Fashion: Players completing the meta-achievement for The Nightmares Within will unlock a special Gasmask Skin that features the latest design in air purification and toxin prevention. This universal skin can be applied to any piece of head armour. · Exclusive Looks: Players can complete their wardrobes with a new Air Filtration Device a dry-land version of the starter aquatic helm - or get the new Toxic Spore back item. · Minis: Players can earn two new Toxic Krait minis – one by destroying Toxic Alliance foes, the other by killing a special enemy hidden deep in the heart of the Tower of Nightmares. · Tri-Key Chest: Players collecting three keys – either from foes within the Tower of Nightmares or by bartering for them with Marjory Delaqua’s helper, Dee – can open the chest for a chance to win special treasures.

For more details on Guild Wars 2 or The Nightmares Within, visitwww.guildwars2.com.

Final Fantasy XIV: Libra Eorzea Available Now For Android Devices The Official Companion App for Final Fantasy XIV : A Realm Reborn Publishers of Square Enix interactive entertainment products in Europe and PAL territories, announced today that Final Fantasy XIV – Libra Eorzea, the official smart phone companion app for Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn, is now available at Google Play as a free download.

The application features a comprehensive game database that can be accessed offline, as well as a character profile viewer for reviewing gear and attributes on the go. The application requires a supported device running Android 2.3 or later. For more details, please visit:http:// eu.finalfantasyxiv.com/pr/special/libraeorzea/.

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Game Database Final Fantasy XIV – Libra Eorzea contains an encyclopaedic catalogue of in-game information, including items, quests, non-playable characters (NPCs), achievements, and more. With a host of updates in the works, the database will serve as an ever-useful resource for the adventurers of Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn.

Character Profiles Players with an active Final Fantasy XIV : A Realm Reborn account can log in with their Square Enix account credentials to review their character information such as attributes and gear. They can also browse the profiles of other characters in their Free Company, Linkshell, or use the search function to view details on other players and Free Companies. Moreover, players can even learn where fellow adventurers acquired their gear.

Set at the dawn of the 18th Century, the game features some of the most infamous pirates in history, such as Blackbeard and Charles Vane, and takes players on a journey throughout the West Indies during a turbulent and violent period of time later to become known as the Golden Age of Pirates.

For more information on Assassin’s Creed, please visit assassinscreed.comand facebook.com/ assassinscreed.

Dragon Ball Z: Battle Of Z “Goku Edition” Revealed

Leading video game developer and publisher Namco Bandai Games Europe Ubisoft S.A.S. announced Confirms today that Dragon Ball Playstation 4 Z: Battle Of Z will be coming out on 24th Bundle for January 2014; and on top of the Ki-blast filled Pre Assassin’s Creed IV Black Order & Day 1 editions, gamers will enjoy the GOKU Edition!

Flag This new game will allow players to Ubisoft announced experience a whole new fighting mode: Team a bundle for Battle, a new variety where they will create the PlayStation 4 perfect team with their allies to defeat the computer strongest foes out there! Gamers can create their entertainment team based on the brawlers’ type: Support, system including Ki-Blast, Interfere and Melee, the better the team the console and a composition is, the stronger the combos will be! copy of Assassin’s On top of these four different battle types, players Creed IV Black Flag, available at the launch of will enjoy top-notch new features such as the the console in the UK on November 29th, 2013. “Ultimate Move”, the “World Genki”, two different A bundle for PlayStation 3 including the stories and much more! console and a copy of Assassin’s Creed IV Black To celebrate the release of this new game, Flag has also been available for sale since NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe is providing October 29 in the UK. fans with some unique Pre-order and Day 1 Customers who purchase Assassin’s Creed offers - now including the “GOKU Edition”: IV Black Flag on PlayStation 3 or PlayStation 4 a Collector’s Edition for PlayStation ®3 and can download 60 minutes of additional gameplay XBOX®360, which features the full game with via the PlayStation Network after the game’s the unique GOKU (Naruto Uzumaki Sage Mode) launch.

Costume DLC, an amazing art book with Assassin’s Creed IV Black Flag tells the privileged content from the developers’ team and story of Edward Kenway, a young British man an exclusive SUPER SAIYAN GOKU figurine with a thirst for danger and adventure, who falls (25cm height)! from privateering for the Royal Navy into piracy “Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Z not only brings a as the war between the major Empires comes to wealth of innovative gameplay mechanics to the an end. Edward is a fierce pirate and seasoned Dragon Ball video games, but also some brand fighter who soon finds himself embroiled in the new characters directly from the latest Dragon ancient war between Assassins and Templars.

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Ball Z movie, on top of all the famous sagas!” said Mathieu PIAU, EMEA Marketing Director at Namco Bandai Games Europe. “As a reward to our loyal fan base, we’re excited to offer an amazing Collector’s Edition they can’t afford to miss, including a never-before-seen GOKU figurine, a dazzling art book and much more!”

Don’t forget to join our community on www.team-up.eu and Team-Up to unleash your Super-Saiyan power!

Dragon Ball Z: Battle Of Z for Playstation 3 XBOX 360® and Playstation Vita is coming on 24th January 2014. For more information about Namco Bandai Games Europe and its entire line up of games please visit www.namcobandaigames.eu and www.team-up.eu.

NBA Live 14 To Give Players Fresh Connected Experience Throughout the NBA Season Daily Updates to Include New In-Game Challenges, Player Stats, Tendencies and More EA Sports provided the first details surrounding the connected experiences fans can expect in NBA Live 14. By utilizing the power and connectivity of next-gen consoles, NBA Live 14 can provide not only player ratings and tendencies updates, but new challenges, new rewards and other new content throughout the season.

CourtQ offers updates of over 70 player ratings, tendencies and team stats, Powered by Synergy Sports Technology, and refreshed after each NBA game. Consequently, players in-game will perform, react and ball just like their real-world counterparts. NBA Live 14 provides the most authentic, timely updates ever to keep fans connected to the league like never before. In addition to new ratings and tendencies, NBA Live 14 will utilize CourtQ to push new content on a regular basis.

Through the connected experience game modes and challenges such as Head-to-Head Seasons, LIVE Season (which features BIG Moments and NBA Rewind), LIVE Ultimate Team and EA Sports Hoops Network, NBA Live 14 will be constantly updated to keep the game fresh

every time you turn on your console.

Head-to-Head Seasons tracks the results of each online game and places players in the appropriate league based on their skill level. Win enough games and you’ll be promoted to the next level of competition, struggle and face demotion to a lower tier.

Jump into LIVE Season to enjoy new content every day, powered by CourtQ and Synergy. Take on quick challenges based on each day’s most memorable NBA performances in BIG Moments. Whether you’re faced with scoring a last-minute buzzer-beater or swiping the ball three times in a quarter with a specific player, these bite-sized challenges provide a quick dose of NBA action. Replicate history or rewrite it in NBA Rewind as you take control of the league’s biggest stars and teams throughout the season with the actual team roster, player stats and tendencies. Attempt to match or surpass full-game objectives generated

by Synergy and CourtQ that focus on several key performances from the actual contest. · Experience the perfect combination f NBA Live 14 and fantasy basketball, as you build your Ultimate Team of the brightest modern NBA stars and all-time legends in LIVE Ultimate Team. · EA SPORTS Hoops Network also allows individuals to stay connected with friends and track their performances and success alongside other NBA Llive gamers across the globe.

Everything fans do in NBA Live 14 rewards them with XP, which will unlock new content and bonuses in LIVE Ultimate Team as players level-up.

NBA Live 14 will also feature a full ESPN broadcast integration with special graphics and presentation for postseason games and the NBA Finals., The game will also include commentary from the number-one ESPN broadcast team, Mike Breen and Jeff Van Gundy. Additionally, Jalen Rose will join Breen and Van Gundy, to provide in-game analysis before, during and after a game. Rose will also provide weekly commentary updates, the latest NBA news and analysis, and shout-outs to top NBA IVE gamers and special announcements. To complement this constantly evolving game NBA Live 14 features an equally adaptive soundtrack. Mixtape by Mick showcases the hottest up-and-coming artists, hand-selected by the legendary DJ himself.

The NBA LIVE 14soundtrack will grow and evolve over the course of the year, as MICK introduces new tracks throughout the season. NBA LIVE 14 is more than just a game, as it also offers a cool way to discover new

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music and stay on the cutting edge of culture.

NBA Live 14is developed in Orlando, Florida by EA Tiburon and is available for pre-order on the Xbox One and the PlayStation 4 at all major retailers. NBA LIVE 14 will launch on Xbox One and PlayStation 4 on November 19, 2013 in North America, and worldwide on November 22 on Xbox One and November 29 for PlayStation 4. With the power of EA Sports Ignite, NBA Live 14will deliver True Player Motion, Human Intelligence and Living Worlds to the hardwood. To learn more about NBA LIVE 14, visithttp://www.easports.com/nba-live, and be sure to follow the NBA Live 14 Facebook and Twitter pages for breaking news and information.

Magic 2014 Deck Pack #1 Now Available Wizards of the Coast has released the first Deck Pack expansion for Magic 2014 – Duels of the Planeswalkers on Playstation Network, Xbox LIVE Arcade, Steam (PC), Android, and iPad.* The Deck Pack features two brand new decks –Unfinished Business & Bounce and Boon.

Here’s a little taste of what each new deck offers: Unfinished Business: Wake the dead!

The creatures of the blue and black “Unfinished Business” deck refuse to rest in peace. Your spells will bring them back from beyond the grave to exact vengeance against your enemies Bounce and Boon: Summon creatures that enter the battlefield with a bang - then summon them again and again! The white “Bounce and Boon” deck keeps your opponents on their heels with a constant stream of life gain and battlefield manipulation.

The Deck Pack also comes with the foil conversions for both Unfinished Business & Bounce and Boon. Please let me know if you have any questions.

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One Piece: Romance Dawn new assets unveiled Coming out on 29th November, One Piece Romance Dawn will fulfill all One Piece fans’ expectations by offering them all the ingredients to live a real pirate adventure: sailing, fighting, hard choices and much more!

During their odyssey, young pirates will enjoy a very RPG-esque adventure and will be able to level-up their characters’ skills by using “Skill Points” (SP) gathered during missions.

On top of this feature, take a look at BROOK model where we recognize his signature poses.

One Piece: Romance Dawn for NINTENDO TM 3DS is coming out on 29thNovember 2013 in Europe and Australasia. For more information about NAMCO BANDAI Games Europe and its entire line up of games please visit www.namcobandaigames.eu and www.OnePiece-RomanceDawn.eu

GTA Online Free Beach Bum Update Hits Next Week: New Weapons, Vehicles, Jobs and More Get ready to hit the beach with all new Jobs with the Beach Bum Bum update for Grand Theft Auto Online, coming November 19th.

Get ready to tear up the coast and kick up some sand with the free Grand Theft Auto Online Beach Bum update that will be coming next week Tuesday November 19th. All the new Beach Bum content will be added automatically to GTA Online through our next title update (1.06), and will include two new weapons, a quartet of rugged and fun new vehicles for landand sea, lots of new action-packed Jobs, plus a wide variety of suitably rad new apparel, hairstyle and tattoo customization options.

Read on for more details.

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New Jobs The Beach Bum update will bring a slew of new action-packed Jobs to GTA Online next week.

These include new beach-themed Races, Deathmatches, Parachutes, Last Team Standings, Survivals as well as Gang Attacks for those who enjoy a good territorial skirmish.

Better not kick sand in the wrong face.

Beach blankets may run red by the time the sun sets on Vespucci.

Here are just a few of our favorite new ones that are on the way: "Grass Route II" (Race): In this sequel to the original popular Grass Route Race, go off-road in an epic heat starting on the North bank of the Zancudo River through the treacherous wetlands with a triumphant finish on the beach in North Chumash.

"Survival on Del Perro Pier" (Survival): Skip the ferris wheel for a deadlier kind of thrill ride as you take on waves of relentless enemies at this beachfront attraction.

"View of Vespucci" (Parachuting): This leap sends you from 2,980 feet, down towards Vespucci Beach, weaving through palm trees to land on the basketball courts of the rec center. If you've got skills, it's possible to freefall through the first few checkpoints before even opening your chute.

"Paleto Beach" (Team Deathmatch): The locals complain that not a lot happens in this sleepy town, so do them a favor and wake 'em up with a barrage of gunfire exchanged between you and a rival team. This Team Deathmatch takes place right on the romantic shoreline for 4-8 players.

"Sundae Driving" (Bike Race): Sure to be a new fan-favorite motorbike race, menace Vespucci Beach on your two-wheel rocket, taking breakneck corners as you try and best the competition.

Expect these and lots more Jobs to be added to Grand Theft Auto Online next week.

New Vehicles Hit the shore with four sand-and-surf-ready vehicles perfect to take on the all new Beach Bum Races and Vehicle Deathmatches: the BF Bifta dune buggy, the rugged Canis Kalahari off-road truck, the Bravado Paradise beach camper van and making a special return to the GTA series, the fast and stylish Speeder speedboat. All four vehicles will be available at no in-game cost, with the land-based vehicles accessible from the southernsanandreassuperautos.com website and the Speeder available via docktease.com on your in-game phone (call

Pegasus for delivery). These vehicles are also available in Story Mode for Michael, Trevor and Franklin to enjoy - to access them, visit your garage property and the Marina property for the vehicles and the boat respectively.

Take to the seas and waterways in the classic, nimble Speeder.

New Weapons Expand your arsenal with two new free weapons - the compact yet deadly SNS Pistol and the brutal new Broken Bottle melee weapon which is quite effective at delivering the appropriate message in up close and personal encounters.

Each weapon will be available gratis from any Ammu-Nation location in GTA Online and will be added straight into each of the three characters' inventory in Story Mode.

Beach bums with attitude. Hit the coast with all new customization options to style up your GTA Online character.

New Customization Options You'll be able to deck out your GTA Online character with all new beach-ready customization options including stylish board shorts, neon surfer attire, wild tribal tattoos, shaggy hair for that West Coast laissez-faire vibe and more...

This is just the first of many new content updates we're working on for Grand Theft Auto Online in the weeks and months ahead. Please stay tuned here at the Newswire for word on the forthcoming Content Creator, full on cooperative Heists, and GTA Online's take on Capture the Flag - plus info on some exciting new Story Mode updates as well. We'll have new info to share on all of this very soon.

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WORLD OF WARCRAFT: WARLORDS OF DRAENOR REMAKES HISTORY AT BLIZZCON 2013 Lead the charge against the fiercest orc clans from Warcraft lore Join your friends on the front lines with an instant level-90 character upgrade Heroes of Azeroth are on the verge of a war that will reforge the fate of two worlds. Announced today at BlizzCon 2013, World of Warcraft: Warlords of Draenor, the fifth expansion to Blizzard Entertainment’s acclaimed massively multiplayer online role-playing game, sends players to the world of Draenor at a pivotal moment in history to fight against and alongside legends from Warcraft’s brutal past.

To help new and returning players answer the call to arms on Draenor, the expansion will enable anyone to instantly boost one character to level 90, including a newly created character, quickly getting them up to speed and ready to enjoy the latest content with their friends.

Across Draenor's savage jungles and battle-scarred plains, Azeroth's heroes will engage in a mythic conflict involving mystical draenei champions and mighty orc clans, and cross axes with the likes of Grommash Hellscream, Blackhand, and Ner’zhul at the height of their primal power. Players will need to scour this unwelcoming land in search of allies to help build a desperate defense against the old Horde’s formidable engine of conquest - or else To establish a foothold on Draenor once they’ve watch their own world’s bloody, war-torn history arrived, the displaced champions of the Horde repeat itself. and Alliance will be able to construct their own Garrison, an expandable, customizable “Warlords of Draenor gives players a chance to stronghold that will serve as each player’s take a commanding role in one of personal base of operations throughout the the Warcraft series’ most crucial conflicts,” said course of the expansion. As the Garrison grows, Mike Morhaime, CEO and cofounder of Blizzard players will be able to recruit NPC allies and Entertainment. “This expansion also includes followers to take up residence, gathering features that make it easy for anyone to jump resources and embarking on missions on the right into the action, whether they’ve player’s orders. played WoW at some point in the past or are just setting foot in Azeroth for the first time.”

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Watch the trailer!

Warlords of Draenor will also introduce fully revamped player character models and animations for many of World of Warcraft’s existing playable races, bringing the orcs, humans, and several other long time residents of Azeroth up to the visual standards of newer races while still maintaining their iconic style and identity.

Along with these new features, World of Warcraft players will enjoy a wide array of new content on their way to the new level cap of 100, including new Zones, Dungeons, Raids, Scenarios, Battlegrounds, and more. Warlords of Draenor will also introduce questing improvements designed to encourage exploration and add unpredictability to players’ ongoing adventures.

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Review

Vampires and Volleyball are two words that I never thought I would see together in the same sentence but with the latest release from Retro64 has changed that.

‘Vampire Volleyball’ does exactly what it says on the tin where you get to choose between playing as Fango or Carpathia as you compete against other vampires in a volleyball game to the death (or is that undeath).

Sounds cheesy? Well it is but that’s half the fun of playing retro games where you get to kick back, relax and play like it was the 1980’s all over again. Of course the game is designed to be that way and not to be taken too seriously but when the game is free to download and play I can think of worse things to do.

Overall ‘Vampire Volleyball’ was never designed to be the most breath taking game out there, nor was it designed to be the most complex in terms of gameplay or tactics required to complete it. It was designed with only one thing in mind - to kick back, relax and have fun playing with which it successfully does and has managed to keep me amused since it found its way onto my trusty pc.

If I had to find fault with it I would say it is its inability to allow you to save the level where you are at in the game was moderately annoying (but the fart propelled opponent that pops up later on in the game more than made up for this!).

In terms of features as you can pretty much expect there isn’t a great deal to explain with the main ones being: -

1 or 2 player action

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8 unique vampires, each with their own special move

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3 different heroes, with unique jumps, kicks, Rating: 10/10 and spikes Additional Information: Easy single button game play, or full control Website: http://www.retro64.com/index.php Game Label: Retro 64 movement Release Date: 25/10/13 Fluid animations and a rocking soundtrack

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For any review requests please contact the Firebrand After Dark team on the email address below. afterdark@fbrr2010.com

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Reptilian Death The Dawn Of Consummation and Embrace Label: Old School Metal Records Released: 10 October 2013 Reviewer: Stoodge Mc Nulty Highlight: Patchwork and the Art of Skinning Website: https://www.facebook.com/ReptilianDeath

Normally when you hear the words India and Music in the same sentence your first train of thought is Bollywood, but thanks to these overlords of the Indian metal scene the dawn of consummation and embrace has just begun. Although not new to the scene these advocates of profanation from Mumbai have developed a craft that will soon propel this deity into the worldwide spotlight.

mastermind of this repulsive exhibition. The diabolic impetus from Demonstealer incessantly seeps through the pores of this heinous creation.

After half a decade of sabbatical west Indias finest are back and with huge intent. This is bone shattering Death metal at it's irascible best. With tracks entitled 'Soaked With The Imperfections Of Puerile Blood' 'Distorted By Bondage Blood and Bestiality' and 'Unnervingly Perverted At The Alter' there is also some humour to be found here.

Originally what began as a one man solo project has over the last 12 years manifested into the brutal institution that we behold today, albeit a few line up The rebirth of Reptilian Death has presented itself, but changes along the way. Not to discredit the other is the unsuspecting World ready? I hope so! musicians on this record but the stench of 'one man show' is pungent during the course of this hellish endeavour. Demonstealer who you may already know from Demonic Resurrection is the brain sick

Buckcherry The Best of Buckcherry Label: Eleven Seven Records Released: 28 October 2013 Reviewer: Lee Walker Highlight: Gluttony Website: http://www.buckcherry.com/

When this album popped up I was surprised to find that the LA based rockers Buckcherry have been around for 15 years. Time seems to have flown by for Josh Todd and the gang since that song captivated the attention of pretty much everyone with its catchy as Hell riffs, sleazy lyrics and its mass appeal.

As a band Buckcherry have an often overlooked back catalogue of songs such as ‘Lit Up’, ‘Ridin’, ‘Next To You’ and ‘All Night Long’ which seem to live forever in the shadow of ‘Crazy Bitch’.

The downside to “best of’s” though is that a lot of existing fans have already got a lot of the material that goes onto them so more and more bands often put some new tracks or live recordings on these type of albums to add to its appeal which is where I feel that the album falls down slightly as it fails to do this, which leaves me thinking that yes this is a good introduction to Buckcherry but could and should have been done better.

‘The Best of’ album gives people the chance to listen to, and hopefully discover, some of the bends other songs and by releasing it just ahead of the UK tour they couldn’t have timed this release any better.

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Zoltar Speaks Save As I Save Label: Self Release Reviewer: Lee Walker

Released: 11 November 2013 Highlight: See You In Another Life

Website: http://www.zoltarspeaks.co.uk/

With a name like Zoltar Speaks I was half expecting some sort of emo sounding band so to say I was surprised when I finally had the chance to hit play was an understatement. Hailing from the land of Scrumpy and other assorted apple based beverages (of the none alcoholic variety of course) Zoltar Speaks have finally released their debut album unto an unsuspecting public.

Where I do feel that the album falls down though is that it needs more consistency adding to the overall feel with a few of the songs leaving you feel slightly jaded as they switch between tempos leaving you rocking out one minute only to run headfirst into a slow, almost acoustic style ballad, the next.

Does Zoltar Speak? Well the signs are there that For a debut album the result is not bad with the with time this young band can take it to the next currently flame haired Louise Body doing a great level but only time will tell us for sure. job on vocals, displaying a depth to them which at times far outweighs the relatively short time that this fledgling band have been around while being backed up with great guitar work and good song writing.

Suffer The Wrath Divine Sign EP Label: Self Released Released: 1 November 2013 Reviewer: Stoodge Mc Nulty Highlight: Divine Sign Website: https://www.facebook.com/sufferthewrath

Well what we have here is four tracks of rampant and disorderly brutal technical death metal. Whilst currently working on their debut full length 'Opposition Dethroned' this anomaly from Springfield, Illinois have given us another taste of the wrath that they are capable of unleashing. This is the bands third EP release and serves as a candor testimony as to what we should expect when their album manifests early next year.

consistent during the four tracks. Next up is 'Divine Sign' and with it's machine gun drumming and pulsating fret work it's a menacing conception.

'Sinister Dawn' like the two prior offerings plays out in a pull no punches - throw everything manner devastating all that's in it's path. The terminus of this EP is the subversive 'Slave King' which continues the forcible and energetic nature that is perpetual on this record.

This record bulldozes home at 13 minutes, whilst not elapsing for too long it is an instant and prolonging barrage of energy, enormity and virulence. What this band do perfectly in an adroit manner is use acute aggression to throw listeners into a highly active and fully explosive minefield.

It would be a hell of a stretch to call this an original sounding record but that doesn't take anything away from this fine demonstration of what these guys are capable of. Think Randy Blythe as vocalist for Decapitated and you'll get the generalisation.

Opener 'Buried In Blood' bodyslams into action immediately and this frenzied onslaught remains

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Monkey3 The 5th Sun Label: Napalm Records Released: 25 October 2013 Reviewer: Stoodge Mc Nulty Highlight: Icarus Website: http://www.monkeythree.com/

Think Karma To Burn and Kyuss minus John Garcia taking co occupancy aboard a space shuttle and going on a voyage through hyperspace and your conclusion will be something parallel to this monolithic and splendiferous opus.

These high priests of Swiss Stoner Rock first got together in 2001 and as the album title suggests this is their fifth release. What Monkey3 have achieved with this album is something that was until now imperceptible, they've managed to reach out into orbit with high amplitude and in doing so have uncovered a new dimension of tranquility and serenity. This is definite Space Age Shit!

Opening track 'Icarus' certainly takes us on a flight, It's a spiraling composition that puts the listener on a celestial journey on board an asteroid through the mass vortex of the Universe. The rest of the album

pretty much plays out in similar vein and the atmosphere created during the fifty minute trip is as paradisical and delectable as you could ever dream of.

'Birth Of Venus' is the most ambient and subdued song in this collection of orbital anthems that is continuously surmounting as the album plays out it's causation.

Album closer 'Circles' has that chilled out Jazz club vibe before evolving into a mammoth riff fest as this immense excursion into the vast ulterior macrocosm reaches it's omega point.

If the conspirators are right about there being an obelisk on the Moon then I'm pretty sure it has Monkey3 craved up one side of it. This is indeed Close Encounters Of The 5th Kind.

Craven Idol Towards Eschaton Label: Dark Descent Records Reviewer: Stoodge Mc Nulty

Released: 15 October 2013 Highlight: Codex of Seven Dooms

Website: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Craven-Idol/158945044134965

Usually when you hear of a band consisting of members that go by the names 'Vrath' 'Scourger' 'Volgard' and 'Suspiral' you would think they spawn from a dark and desolate snow laden forest somewhere in Norway. This is quite to the contrary as these demons of the night have their seeds buried in some murky subsurface in London, England.

Before delving into what music this release has to offer a big kudos goes out to Paolo Girardi for the artwork on this album, it's pretty impressive if I must say.

Throughout this beast the level of fortified extremities are infinite and incalculable. With Jeff Walker esque thorax dissecting vocals and strong Crust Punk prevalence this is as anarchical and fiendish as a record will be this year. Not once

stopping for respite, what the listener is treated to here is a virulent discharge of resoluteness, alacrity and vigor.

It's difficult to find anything that would constitute as being orthodox but track 'Craven Atonement' is the most straight forward sounding piece on this album in terms of song structure. Opening with a master class in bellowing Doom riffagery and then exploding into a frenzied Thrash attack is a slight yet grandeur escape from the nonconformism and unpredictability that shrouds the rest of the material on here.

It's ironic that this release is out on Dark Descent as this brumous offering is more kindred to an ascension from Hell. This should probably be the soundtrack to any indecent ritualistic sĂŠance.

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Ringbearer The Way Is Shut Label: Tridroid Records Reviewer: Stoodge Mc Nulty

Released: 1 December 2013 Highlight: Where The Sea Meets The Land

Website: https://www.facebook.com/Ringbearermusic

You ready for some neo - Tolkien black mafia metal ambiance from Canada? Of course you are! or those not in the know, this is a solo project from Vultyrous the wizard 6-stringer from technical death savages Archspire. He's also been keeping himself busy with a profusion of one man projects including Almuric and Funeral Fornication.

If your expecting some straight forward and generic fast paced riffing and blast beat drumming that you'd normally associate with this genre then think again. Instead of these habitual traits what's actually impending is subdued string sections, melancholic piano work, atmospheric shivering effects and mellifuous compositions.

there is also a distinct feeling of the Godfather movies on this record.

Although I'm sure this wasn't a forethought, some of the arrangements aren't to dissimilar to those from the Francis Ford Coppola classic trilogy. The environment and surroundings that are created could have this as a soundtrack to 'Godfather 4 - Vito Corleone visits Middle Earth' if only Hollywood would ever contemplate making such a hybrid blockbuster hit.

Vocals and are in very short supply, not a single breath is broken until sixth track 'Nine Riders' where we are given the exchange of operatic harmonies and shrieking bellows that accompany the most conventional part of the album.

The running time of this mythical beast is a total This embodiment has the essence, guise and of 56 minutes, which is about 15 minutes too structure of black metal but not the vitals, this is long. There's a track entitled 'The Dead what you could call exoskeleton metal.

Marshes' which rolls in at over 10 minutes which could probably have been dropped from The narrative of Middle Earth isn't anything new, there's been bands using that concept for this otherwise almost solid overture. years. Ringbearer thankfully isn't that predictable and comes with a little variance,

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Eternal Fear Eternal Damnation Label: Sliptrick Records Reviewer: Lee Walker Website: http://www.eternalfear.net

Released: 2013 Highlight: Army From Hell

So with two trips to the UK this year and an As albums go the result is not bad at all and interview in last months magazine we felt that it certainly should sit well with the hoards of was only fitting that we looked at the Swedes power metal fans out there while still being latest offering ‘Eternal Damnation’. accessible to the trad metalers and hopefully should raise the recognition of this band to the ‘Eternal Damnation’ starts as it means to go on level that it should be. a mix of teutonic guitar riffs and Rob Halford style vocals creating a sound which is part Judas Priest and part Primal Fear creating an unholy marriage resulting in a bastadised love child that combines the best elements from both worlds resulting in songs screaming to be played loud with track after track being nailed home in precision fashion as Eternal Fear effortlessly rattle off track after track of this hybrid mix of European power metal.

Brain Dead Menace From The Sickness Label: Punishment 18 Records Reviewer: Stoodge Mc Nulty

Released: 2 December 2013 Highlight: Menace From The Sickness

Website: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Brain-Dead/45127691823

Here we have a band heavily influenced by the Bay Area Thrash scene of the 1980's, most notably Exodus as if the name didn't already give that away. Hailing from Ivrea in Northern Italy this is the bands first release since their debut 'In The Deep Of Vortex' in 2009.

If you're a fan of dancefloor blitzing thrash then you will certainly relish this titanium crashing cataclysm. With an expansive array of riffs devised and emitted from the beginning to the conclusion of this record it would have been acceptable if one or two had been lacklustre, but to be sincerely honest the shredding on offer does not disappoint and remains above adequate all the way through.

The only negative that's evident is that a few of the songs on the first half of this album seem to be a little too long. Perhaps a reshuffle of the tracklisting could have stopped this as it's more noticeable due to these songs being lumped together. This minor hiccup unfortunately makes a few of the early songs tedious and tempting to skip forwards the end. Short instrumental track 'The Mission' (track 7) opens the door for the best segment of the album as the second half is doubtlessly flawless.

Stand out songs include 'Land of Cunning' 'Pay for a Better Life' and the bruising Kreator worshipping title track.

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HARM Cadavar Christi Label: FDA Rekotz Reviewer: Stoodge Mc Nulty

Released: 25 October 2013 Highlight: Blopd For God

Website: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Harm/131650603566081

Since the release of their first demo tape 'God Forgives........My Chainsaw Not!' back in 2010 these Berlin Brutes have gathered themselves quite a tasty underground following in Europe. There's enough evidence on here to prove that their followers have not been misled.

warfare and standing offensively against religion are constantly protruding. Yes we've had all this before, a tried and tested formula that has worked for years. Do we need another band like this? Hell yes we do, the rawness and potency of HARM is enough to convert any obstinate naysayer.

There is a rancid stench of Autopsy on this record, the stoned yet perpetual drumming helps ensure that. A throw back to early nineties Death Metal? I like to think this kind of sound never died, …...no puns intended there.

The brilliantly titled 'Harmageddon' takes the album on a faint change of direction with it's neo Doom attrition, this provides great certitude that the band can also preach from a different hymn sheet.

This record opens with the fusillade of 'My Name is Jack' and from there, through tracks 'Burn The Saints' the title track and 'Drivers of Death' we are treated to some genuine organ piercing death metal. 'Blood for God' serves up a feast that hacks against religion as a few tracks on here do. To anatomise the songs on this flesh lacerating offering, the Apocalypse, Armageddon through nuclear

Bringing this massacre piece to a close is a trilogy of terror with 'Mustard Gas Terror' 'Nuclear Holocaust' and 'Cross Desecration'. The dystopian environment of war-bred wastlelands, hopelessness and dissolution that was transfigured from the beginning of this record finally becomes complete as it finds it's conclusion.

Psyclon Nine [Order Of The Shadow: Act 1] Label: Metropolis Records Reviewer: Lee Walker Website: http://www.psyclon9.com/

Not being massively familiar with Psyclon Nine I was somewhat apprehensive when I saw a promo photo of the band which was concerning as they looked more like Black Veil Brides than an industrial band thankfully as ‘[Act I] Consecration’ opens up with its mechanised apocalyptic style opening this was quickly cast aside.

Released: 12 November 2013 Highlight: Suffer Well

expect if you crossed Cradle Of Filth with Ministry, with the two styles strangely complementing each other in a twisted kind of way, creating songs which are both terrifying and yet fascinating to listen to as they unfold and explode around you leaving [Order of the Shadow: Act I] as somewhat of an acquired taste.

[Order of the Shadow : Act I] quickly continues with the unique sounds continuing to lay waste to anyone within earshot of it with its mix of deep throbbing industrial undercurrent merging with the hash, alien like vocals of Nero Bellum creating a sound similar to what you would

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Hail Of Bullets III The Rommel Chronicles Label: Metal Blade Released: 29 October 2013 Reviewer: Stoodge Mc Nulty Highlight: Tobruk Website: http://www.hailofbullets.com/cms/

Going slightly against the grain of their first two releases, Hail Of Bullets instead of pinpointing certain events in historical battles they've this time chosen a single solitary figure as their concept, that focal point is German Field Marshall Edwin Rommel, also known as the Desert Fox.The main striking difference from their last album 'On Divine Winds' is not just how Martin Van Drunen's lyrical focus has changed but the musical direction also, going for a heavier, less melodic approach has resulted in this record being absolute penetrating death metal at it's finest. Blast this too loud and you may very well get shellshocked!

The rapid bombardment of machine gun fire, cannons and tanks are only a mere and distant thought as the tale of Mr Rommel takes precedence and unfolds. The ten tracks on here present a

different stage of Rommels tenture as commander of the Ghost Division, the North African Campaign and his eventual death. Why do they bother teaching Children History in School when they could just blast this at them every morning?

The conviction in Van Drunen's rallying and uproarious war cries right through to the culmination of the album 'Death of a Field Marshall' ensures the solemn narrative presented here is both momentous and epic. Bands like Sabaton may tell the story of battles gone by reiterating novels and fan requests, but with Hail Of Bullets you get the full unedited story right from the frontline.The soldier that is HoB was once a rookie cadet exerted in the trenches, but this release further states how these men are have become more a part of the vanguard of the Metal army.

Crematory Shadowmaker Label: Steamhammer/SPV Reviewer: Lee Walker Website: http://www.crematory.de/

Released: 25 November 2013 Highlight: Shadowmaker (original mix)

Crematory are one band I must admit to Rammstein (long before they made the mistake somehow missing out on but after listening to the of taking the ‘comedy’ route to their shows and new single ‘Shadowmaker’ I will have to fix that. successfully losing my interest in them in the process) with both the Elektro Mix and Centhron Intended as a ‘taster’ for their upcoming album Mix adding their own unique twists on the releases with both a brand new album due out storming song by adding extra emphasis upon February next year (‘Antiserum’) and a 10 cd box the ebm and dark wave elements of the song set titled ‘Inception’ comprising of their entire giving it a more ‘danceier’ edge to it. back catalogue due for release on the 25th of this month this single is set to do just that.

The single itself is three versions of the ‘Shadowmaker’ song which upon first listening to it recreates for me the same feeling that I had when I heard ‘Feuer Frei’ by fellow Germans

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Broken Glazz Divine Label: Punishment 18 Records Released: 28 October 2013 Reviewer: Stoodge Mc Nulty Highlight: Divine Website: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Broken-Glazz/163338917867

This is a very interesting addition to our reviews section and record collectors should also find this of some concern. Here we have a reissue of an album that was originally released only on vinyl in 1991 and if that wasn't sufficient enough they have added six bonus tracks that were first found on the bands debut demo 1990's 'Withdraw From Reality'.

The first half of this double header is definitely the most impressive, the production and overall sound certainly prevails. The 'Withdraw From Reality' side is more harsh and shows evidence of their early thrash influences.

Coming out at a time when other technical metal bands had already been making hugh waves across the World, most notably Annihilator who had just released their follow up to 'Alison Hell' entitled 'Never, Neverland' and with Death who had released their masterpiece 'Spiritual Healing' this release from Italy's Broken Glazz only caused a slight ripple on the European scene. Unable to mimic the following and rise of their Western comrades these men ultimately called it a day in 1994. They did reform for two shows in 2008 but the Broken Glazz dream has been dormant ever since.

Track 'Someday' is the only one to survive both recording sessions and make it onto both releases, with the album version sounding like early Queensryche and the demo being more Megadeth this only further establishes the contrast in productions.

The shift in musical direction on both releases is actually quite fascinating. The band modifying their As packages go this isn't something to be overwork from their inception of brandishing raw and looked, what we have here is two stellar releases of reckless thrash with a truant attitude to being Italian technical speed metal which unfortunately devout advocates of the precision tech/speed for the creators of this release has already been revolution shows just how the metal scene was massively disregarded for over two decades. changing at the time this was originally released.

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Despite not really having many memorable moments or stand out tracks the material on offer here is decent and more than tolerable.

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Crucified Mortals & Exorcism Split 7” EP Label: Hells Headbangers Records Released: 23 October 2013 Reviewer: Lee Walker Highlight: You (Crucified Mortals) Website: http://shop-hellsheadbangers.com/crucified-mortals-exorcism-split-vinyl.asp

While looking through the piles of review requests for this month this split 7” caught my eye.

a local band rehearsing in their garage, which is a shame as it does not do the band justice at all and detracts greatly from this release.

Crucified Mortals open up the ep’s preceding’s with their own breed of old school punk rock quickly rattling off two tracks in succession of cut back, no nonsense songs leaving you wanting more before with the ringing of the bell Exorcism have the floor, or 7” as the case is.

Musically there sounds suit Crucified Mortals with there no frills approach to the songs but to me the quality of their recording seems to let them down with the sounds feeling muffled, almost like what you would expect to hear from

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