NEWS: Bloodstock - four weeks to go and new bands still being added

There’s just over a month before the heavy metal hoardes rampage on to Catton Park’s hallowed turf for BLOODSTOCK 2016!  The site planning is well under way and the bands are still being added for the UK’s best heavy metal weekender.

In a move that’s sure to please the power metal faithful, riding on to the main stage bill for an early Friday slot are ‘Intergalactic, space metal’ outfit, GLORYHAMMER!   Check out their video for the title track from last year’s ‘Space 1992: Rise of the Chaos Wizards’ here - https://youtu.be/YGV6bCTMM5w. 

Also joining the bill as main stage openers on Friday are Welsh heavy rock power trio, HARK.  The band’s critically acclaimed debut album ‘Crystalline’ featured a guest slot from Clutch’s Neil Fallon and their second release is due later this year.  Get up to speed via www.facebook.com/harktheband/.

Lining up for a Saturday slot on the Sophie stage are British doom/sludge beasts MAGE (www.facebook.com/Mageband) and horror rockers, THE HERETIC ORDER (www.facebook.com/thehereticorder) featuring members of Breed 77.  Stepping into Sunday slots are female-fronted Brit metal four-piece, SANGUINE (www.facebook.com/sanguineband) and hotly tipped, Japanese-inspired, Finnish melodic death metal outfit, WHISPERED (www.facebook.com/whisperedband).  

Joining PHIL CAMPBELL’s ALL STARR BAND for Thursday’s ‘Party Night’ (which sees Phil christening the newly-monikered ‘Lemmy’s Bar’ with the first drink of the weekend), are Norse death/thrash outfit, SUBLIME EYES (www.facebook.com/SublimeEyesBand),  tech/deathsters KARYBDIS (www.facebook.com/Karybdis.band), post-prog metal five-piece SUMER (www.facebook.com/SUMERBAND) and the thrashtastic PSYKOSIS (www.facebook.com/Psykosisthrashmetal), who caused mayhem on the Hobgoblin New Blood stage in 2014 when they threw out hundreds of samples of their home brew to the loyal New Blood supporters.

Got all your camping gear ready?  This year, our campsite partner is Miss Daisy’s Camping Store.  If you can’t be bothered to tow a ton of camping gear to site, order online and collect your stuff from the Miss Daisy tent in the main Midgard campsite at Catton Park.  Saves a lot of hassle and achy shoulders!  Place your order or just see what’s available via their ‘click & collect’ service here - http://www.missdaisyscampingstore.co.uk/.

Want to check out the 2016 merch range?  BLOODSTOCK's online 'click & collect' service allows you to pre-order your favourites for on site collection.  Festival attendees can snap up their choice of t-shirt or grab the 2016 beer mug or hip flask without fear of their size or design being already sold out on site.  Simply pre-order at https://bmerch.com/store/bloodstock/collect-on-site and collect at the merch stall in the arena at any point over the weekend, knowing your item is guaranteed and paid for.  Maybe you want that BOA hoodie for when the sun goes down, so just collect it from the merch stall then to save a trip back to your tent!

How to get to BLOODSTOCK?  Ditch the hassle of car parking, trains, & transfers and let our official coach travel partner Big Green Coach take you and your camping gear straight to the festival from 21 UK cities. Various packages are on sale now; secure your coach trip straight to the festival site with only a £10 deposit.   To book your return seat and see where to catch the coach, check: http://www.biggreencoach.co.uk/events/bloodstock-festival-tickets-coach-travel.  If you’re coming by train to Catton Park, don’t forget to pre-book Big Green Coach’s shuttle bus from the station to save yourself a wad of cash.  Return tickets are priced at £10, one way at £8 (it costs more to pay on the day, so pre-booking wins)!  Book tickets at the link.  Car-sharing with GoCarShare is also available (and participating could even win you a pair of tickets for 2017)!  Full details and to post up a car space/look for a car ride from your town, visit: http://gocarshare.com/festival/bloodstock.   

Our three headliners for 2016 are TWISTED SISTER (in their last ever UK show), MASTODON and SLAYER, plus special guests BEHEMOTH, GOJIRA and ANTHRAX.  Also on the bill are FEAR FACTORY, CORROSION OF CONFORMITY, SYMPHONY X, SATYRICON, PARADISE LOST, DRAGONFORCE, METAL ALLEGIANCE, STUCK MOJO, ROTTING CHRIST, MISERY LOVES CO, GHOST BATH, VENOM, UNEARTH, DIAMOND HEAD, GOATWHORE, ACID REIGN and many more.  Additional bands are still to be announced.

Weekend tickets with camping, priced from £139 (+ booking fee) and day tickets priced £60 (+ booking fee) are available now from http://bloodstock.seetickets.com/event/bloodstock-2016/catton-park/902838.  VIP is now completely SOLD OUT.

BLOODSTOCK will be held at Catton Park, Derbyshire on 11th-14th August 2016.  Keep up to date with the very latest info on BLOODSTOCK’s official sites at www.facebook.com/bloodstock and www.bloodstock.uk.com, or via Twitter on @BLOODSTOCKFEST.

ALBUM REVIEW: Seek Irony testing boundaries on Tech N' Roll - but does its electronica and rock mix?

WHEN the PR blurb that accompanies a release declares that a band creates a place "where the girls come to dance and the guys bang their heads" you come at the album with a wariness and suspicion, at best.

Such was the case when Seek Irony's release 'Tech N' Roll' came wandering into our review folder. And, to be honest, while it is nowhere near our musical tastes, there are some compelling tracks on this, such as the (early) Faith No More influenced 'When You Lie' that garnered an extra listen over the standard three required by basic reviews.

The PR blurb also declares : it’s music born out of the many influences and experiences of the individual band members into a cohesive and powerful blend of modern and alternative rock with an electronica twist and yet, it all comes together harmoniously, powered by meaningful lyrics and passionate melodies. It is an entertaining experience of loud drums and guitars mixed with dancy beats, featuring true musicianship, a unique lights show and dancers in costumes..."

We, of course, cannot attest about the dancers or light shows, but that actually seems a fair enough description. Some tracks are well beyond the comfort zone of this site - 'Running Towards The End Of The World' is just not a good enough mash up of styles.

On opener 'She' and the almost mainstream 'Low' there is enough of a rock core to earn a healthy hat tip from us.

However, the reality is that the rhythms and electronic segments don't always work for this Israeli act, now re-located in Austin, Texas. They may gain an audience from those who want a little more rock than Skrillex or from fans of Skrillex; hell they may get some Radio One listeners...

It is our bias, and we don't deny it, but they need less synths and more 'geetar'. They write reasonably good lyrics and have some good arrangements, but we say it again - more 'geetar'!

Review by Jonny

ALBUM REVIEW: Israeli death metallers Nothing Lies Beyond hit melodic highs on Fragile Reality album

WHEN you think of Tel Aviv you think of the Israeli beach resort, sometimes plagued with conflict, sometimes the scene of eastern Mediterranean dance music but not death metal.

There is, however, a healthy metal scene in Israel, but death metal has a new flag bearer, in the shape of Nothing Lies Beyond.

After their formation five short years ago the band are about to release one of the best death metal albums of the year so far, 'Fragile Reality'.

Labelled as 'melodic death metal' this does not really capture the intensity of the band's approach, which ranges from Norwegian/Gothenburg styles, through to almost mainstream metal.

What it really showcases is technical aplomb, well structured songs and an overall sense of prowess.

From 'Closed In Chains' through to the shout-tastic 'We Are Revolution' there is a deep impression of a band that has learned from the masters of metal and their predecessors in death metal.

The frenetic pace of 'Lost' does not diminish from the intricate inter-play between Danny Nishkit and Tal Perets Singer's guitar work, which seamlessly moves from riffs to licks and solo runs that compliment the track.

Nowhere is this as clear as on 'Fading Behind False Eyes' (originally from their 2011 demo of the same name), which opens with Ido Asa's guttural vocal start to emerge as a song carefully built up to a stunning melodic core with Alon Gani (bass) and Ariel Lior (drums) propelling the track towards a delicate intermission where an acoustic lick introduces a melodic core before the brutality returns.

Indeed what sets this apart from many is that there is a core of melodies and riffs that you could almost use this as a death metal introduction for those fearful of taking the step from hard rock/metal.

They may recoil a little from Ido's (excellent) vocal ferocity but when they hear the solo and rampant rhythm on tracks like 'Final Fight' and 'Visions' they may just be converted to the richness of all things 'deathly'.

However, where mainstream metal fans will be finally caught hook line and sinker is on the album's final track 'We Are Revolution' - a true rallying cry. This is four and a half minutes that many contemporary metal acts could learn from.

Sure it's not anything new in its combination of all-out pace, fierce solos and melody, but it is written and performed with a freshness. And the chorus is simply one of the best out there for many a year. We suspect that the likes of Five Finger Death Punch and Disturbed will be nicking this one.

What Fragile Reality proves is that sometimes when you cast your net a little beyond what the Western European and US sccenes you find real gems that have followed and are now passing the so-called elders; surpassing what the 'metal' mags want us to buy into.

Nothing Lies Beyond - we hope a lot lies beyond this release for this five-piece.

Review by Jonny

ALBUM REVIEW: Heart's new/old release Beautiful Broken reinvigorates classics and gives hope for the future

Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of famers Heart are back after a four year absence with their 16th album ‘Beautiful Broken’.

But, it’s Not so much a new album, there’s only three new tracks on it, but an album where the Wilson sisters revisit songs from their 80’s albums Bebe Le Strange, Private Audition and Passionworks and give them an updated, and in some cases, a less ‘produced’ sound and strip them down to great effect.

Album opener ‘Beautiful Broken’ was actually an extra track from their last album Frantic but this version features a vocal contribution from a certain Mr. James Hetfield. As Ann herself says he certainly adds a bit of bite to the song and it has a driving riff with a nice bass line running through it.

Track two, strangely enough called ‘Two’ is the first new song and it’s a classic Heart love song. Sung by Nancy and a story about two people who just click and make each other happy despite what others may think. Such a powerful song it is that it made a crowd of hardened Glasgow punters go completely quiet at a recent gig.

‘Sweet Darlin’ follows and as the title suggests is another love song. The original piano led version has been updated with a wonderful string arrangement that gives the song a lot more depth. Both these songs may well feature heavily at couple’s only kitchen parties so expect a baby boom sometime around April 2017!

‘I Jump’ is the second new offering and is heavily influenced by Ann and Nancy’s love of all things Led Zeppelin. A very 70’s sounding track with Ann singing in a lower register and with that Kashmir era feel to it. A very good song which when combined with ‘Two’ makes you wonder why they didn’t bring out an album of entirely new material!

‘Johnny Moon’ is a slow tempo number with a nice groove to it. Nice harmony vocals from the sisters and rather psychedelic guitar work make this an interesting update.

The psychedelic feel continues on ‘Heaven’ that also has a very 70’s feel to start before a rhythmic beat and Ann’s powerful vocals take over. It has a nice slide guitar solo on it and is another great tune.

‘City’s Burning’ is a slower tempo version than the original which again has that Led Zeppelin vibe to it with bass and drums at the forefront. With a funky piano and a Jimmy Page style solo this is a very good update and almost sounds like a new song.

‘Down on Me’ is a bluesy number with wonderful passionate and sensual vocal delivery from Ann. The original had an almost Janis Joplan sound but this is a lot more current and proves that Ann’s voice just seems to get better with age.

Originally sung by Nancy ‘One Word’ again has a more updated modern sound to it and not so much in the vein of the Carpenters. Definitely needed re-recorded and benefits greatly from it.

The album closes with “Language of Love” a typical easy listening Heart love song.

All in all this is a very good album but the strength of the new songs makes you hope that a brand new album may not to too long in the making.

Review by Andy Gillen

NEWS: SAHG release seven minute plus single from forthcoming album

SAHG are never a band to take the easy road, and as they gear up for the September 23^rd release of their next album, ‘Memento Mori’, what better way than to release a seven minute plus single…

And for once the blurb seems just about right…

‘Sanctimony’ is the perfect first single from ‘Memento Mori, because it tells a lot about what this album is: versatile, unpredictable, relentlessly uncompromising, and very heavy. It has a disturbing darkness to it, an untamed lunacy, and a soft shimmer of light.

What begins as a twisted, heavy stomper, ends up growing into a wretched monster, that clocks in at seven minutes, 30 seconds. So, yeah, it is the perfect single.

"Hide behind a shield of religion and let it justify your evil deeds."
- Olav Iversen (vocals, guitar)

-Stream the track HERE.
Digital preorder HERE.

NEWS: Sabaton's Joakim and Rhapsody of Fire's Fablio join in the Twilight Force on forthcoming album

SWEDISH ‘adventure’ metallers, Twilight Force, are set to release their new studio album ‘Heroes Of Mighty Magic’ on August 26^th on Nuclear Blast. 

And, the band have now revealed the guest bards on their forthcoming record. Fabio Lione from Rhapsody Of Fire joined them on track 'There And Back Again' and Joakim Brodén from Sabaton on title track, 'Heroes Of Mighty Magic'.

Joakim Brodén said: "When one of the best bands to come out of Sweden in a long time turns out to be your friends and people you have played with many times over the years, it's quite easy to feel proud about being invited to sing on the title-track of their new album, fantastic!"

Twilight Force, as a band, added: "It is an honour to have two of the most powerful, esteemed and renowned voices of the genre appear on ‘Heroes Of Mighty Magic’.Joakim Brodén and Fabio Lione are two very different sonic entities.

“They each bring something very unique and captivating to our tonal landscape. Our old and revered friend Joakim appears on the title track of the album, and provides an excellent contrast to Chrileon's voice, at just the right moment in the song.

“Nothing in the world even comes close to Joakim's unbelievably mighty voice! Fabio did an amazing performance on 'There And Back Again'.

 “He entered the Twilight Forge with a brave and proud mind, emerged victoriously and left us in complete awe. His familiar voice provided the track with an absolutely magical contribution.

 “We feel really humbled and grateful to have been given the opportunity to create something alongside these two titans of the genre!"

ALBUM REVIEW: Barb Wire Dolls lacerate on Desperate release

IN ancient Minoan culture the deities were female, worshipped and obeyed by the fearful populace before that culture, centred on the island of Crete disappeared. Now, in the 21st Century the deities have emerged once more - and they wanna rock.

We refer to Cretian punk goddesses Barb Wire Dolls, who upped sticks from a commune in 2010 at the height of the economic crisis that brought Greece to the brink of financial collapse and headed off to Los Angeles.
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Now, six years later they have released their new album 'Desperate' and have managed to pull off an amazing trick: the perfect blend between classic old school punk sensibilities accessible to rockers and metalheads alike. They're even playing Wacken this year...

Having received plaudits from many a luminary in the music business, no less than Lemmy having uttered his appreciation of the band...and signing them to his label Motörhead Music.

And, on this release they show why they have attracted so much attention with their live performances and two previous albums.

This is the album where they have harnessed the potential from their earlier work with singer Isis Queen achieving laid back vitriol, but what makes this really stand-out is the riffs and rock from lead guitarist, Pyn Doll and rhythm guitarist Remmington, such as on the track 'Take Me Home'.

That track teeters on the edge of 80s hard rock, from the streets around the Whiskey, before the punk attack of 'Heart Attack' reminiscent in parts of Black Flag.

That comparison is perhaps both the strength and what could see as the weakness in Barb Wire Dolls. They wear their hearts and influences on their sleeves;  at times a dash of Ramones, a pinch of BF, a sprinkling of G'n'R and a liberal dose of NOFX, all mixed in with rock 'n' roll á la Motorhead.

But, instead of assuming that they can't produce anything original better to consider that they have indulged in a mind meld with their elders, dragged the collective spirit and inspiration from their predecessors and used the result to produce something that is varied and engaging.

Title track 'Desperate' has an insistent groove that could have suited many grunge bands of the 90s (Nirvana and Soundgarden spring unwittingly to mind after a number of listens) yet retains enough punk and rock, especially after the two minute 30 mark, to have you listening intently.

All of which makes the acoustic opening of 'Blind To You' throw you for a few seconds, before the sparseness of Irele Blacque's bass and Krash Doll's drums behind Isis Queen's drawl vocals gives way to a booming full-on chorus. Ratt, G'n'R, Ugly Kid Joe et al will listen to this, scratch their heads and ponder why they never achieved this balance of song writing and reined in fury when penning albums.

There are no lame duck tracks on 'Desperate', with each track seeming like a hit punk/rock single in their own right.

'I Will Sail' has poignancy and anger that the current generation of pop punk acts polluting the 'rock' channels can only dream of, while 'Problem Of A Poet' echoes Joey Ramone's 'Poison Heart' adding a new twist.

The Minoan civilisation may have disappeared through the Theran eruption around 1,400BC, but the ancient Minoans, as they trembled to volcanic eruptions and tsnumi waves could have some crumb of comfort that their Cretian descendants are creating their own type of explosion.

This is an album that comes from a commune, draws on artistry, pulls at the latent strings of punk, swallows whole rock and metal intent and is one we would love to see performed in its entirety live, loud and proud.

'Desperate' is released on Motörhead Music on July 22nd.

Review by Jonny

ALBUM REVIEW: Maverick go large on Big Red

NORTHERN Ireland is a crucible of incredible talent at present, whether it be death metal, hard rock, punk, classic metal - and proper old school 80s cock rock.

And, there are no better proponents of that 1980s pure rock sound than Maverick. And, goddamit, but they have exceeded, surpassed and gone way beyond their début outing, 'Quid Pro Quo' on their new platter 'Big Red'.

Why the radio stations across the globe aren't beating these guys doors down and major labels throwing cheques and deals at them is a mystery.

But that's not to say they are without suitors, after signing with German label Metalapolis Records. And boy that label must be dancing around their offices having Maverick on their roster.

Let's be very, very clear, this isn't just a good release. This is a great release - more hooks than a salmon poacher on ampehtamines, more licks than Gene Simmons in the Playboy Mansion and more of just about everything that made the 80s such fun.

However, let's be clear that Maverick aren't just about re-treading the past, revelling in the glories of their heroes. They have produced a contemporary, polished album that has depth to the music as well as lyrical class. Sure, there are love songs, songs about love lost and angst, but there are also tunes that explore darker territory ('Beyond The Gates').

What the band have done on 'Big Red' is - and you'll excuse the oxymoron - a nuanced, thoughtful version of what class hard rock can do in the right hands. That's not to say they don't know how to write 'catchy'

When they released 'Quid Pro Quo' in our review we said the track 'Got It Bad' was catchier than ebola, but on Big Red they have upped the stakes with 'Forever. The riff will have you humming and by the time you listen to it in full you'll be a like a crystal meth addict wanting more and more fixes 'Forever'.

David Balfour's vocals are as a strong as ever, and no doubt their tour with The Poodles across Europe has paid off. And, speaking of The Poodles, their vocalist Jakob Samuelsson, guests on 'Asylum'. Oh, and no less than ex-Alice Cooper six-stringer Kane Roberts pops up with some solo excellence.

In an era when the pale shadows of the 1980s have scrubbed off their make-up and hope to earn a crust with the name and playing their past hits, Maverick are fresh; almost a more febrile interpretation of their idols - and whisper it quietly, exceeding some of them.

They are a band that perform live as a unit, and while 'Quid Pro Quo' showcased a large part of that, this time out the recording really captures that unitary feel, a band tight as possible, in song writing and recording.

Ryan's lead work has reached a new level, more balanced as well as showing off his obvious skills, while Richie and Mike are rock steady as a rhythm unit with enough flourishes to keep listeners' attention. There's even a brief bass solo from Richie!

There are no weak tracks on this. 'In The Night' is compelling, while 'Whiskey Lover' is perfectly set up as a live track that will have everyone joining in a great chorus. The opening of 'The One' should have the satellite stations across the US very excited when this is added to their play lists.

The addition of the multi-talented Terry McHugh to the line-up on guitar will add further to the live interpretation of these songs.

To be honest when going into review/listen this album we had a certain sense of trepidation. Had Maverick reached their high water mark with 'Quid Pro Quo' and like many a band from Northern Ireland done one big tour and that would be it?

Well, not only have they exceeded the last release, they have reached further, extended themselves and put them in the position to go beyond even their own expectations.

The tender closer 'Fly Away' is the perfect example of a song that can transcend both the rock listener and any fan of a well-crafted tune; a delicate ballad that is some god-forsaken boy band recorded it Radio One would go into collective meltdown.

Re-reading what the opinions above might seem like hyperbole until you listen to 'Big Red'. Even our death metal correspondent was humming along and for the first time in months grinning...

'Big Red' is the next step for Maverick, and we can't wait to see how high they will climb on the ladder.

Review by Jonny

ALBUM REVIEW: Power metal par excellence from Rage on The Devil Strikes Again

MUCH maligned by metal 'purists' power metal roots are firmly based in the 1980s when a host of European bands hooked on to the sound of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, and Maiden in particular to produce what some saw as a watered down version of what the 'Brits' were producing.

However, as the 80s progressed bands such as Helloween, Running Wild, and Rage developed their sound that by the late 1990s it could be justifiably said that their power metal approach had taken them away from their influences and had a genre all to themselves.

Evidence that these acts don't give a flying shit about what the UK press or online commentators think is now in abundance. Helloween released a stormer of an album in the shape of 'My God Given Right' and now Rage have upped the power metal stakes on their new LP.

'The Devil Strikes Again' is unadulterated metal fun. Don't even try to think about it being a power metal album, just harken back to the days when you played air guitar in your bedroom and listening to metal for the sheer hell of it, no pretences, no over developed sensibilities...

Listening to tracks such as 'Back on Track' from this album just makes you grin.

Peavy Wagner has always been the man with the vision behind Rage, from writing, to his bass playing to vocals to production. All of which are easily identifiable on 'The Devil Strikes Again'

Guitarist Marcos Rodriguez plays with energy and some deft touches (check out War'), while Vassilios 'Lucky' Maniatopoulos has a variety of drum techniques to add to the sound rather than just try to keep pace.

As with all Rage releases the riffs roll out, pacey and precise, the melodies are infectious and the choruses yearn to have a crowd sing-a-long with each and every one.

But the real stand-outs on the album are the duo of 'Ocean Full of Tears' and 'Deaf, Dumb and Blind' with their dynamic use of tone and pace and one scorcher of almost Blackmore-ish solo on the latter.

Yes, at times there are some off-beat homages to their influences (Rainbow, Judas Priest, early Accept) but they are more a tip of the hat rather than anything else.

It's hard to think that this is Rage's 22nd album but Peavy is clear that they tapped into their illustrious past.

“With our new album we wanted to deliberately build on the energy and the spirit of our classic albums from the '90s," he said. "We focussed again absolutely to the songs, hard and straight, with awesome melodies."

The collaboration with Marcos and Lucky works extremely well, it had been a long time since I was so inspired and felt so liberated during songwriting, and so some of the best tracks that I could ever record with RAGE came about. We are more than proud of this album and we can’t wait to bring 'The Devil Strikes Again' to the stage.“
Have to say that we're pretty much of the same opinion.

Review by Jonny

The Devil Strikes Again is out now on Nuclear Blast

NEWS: Killing Joke release new video from Pylon

FOLLOWING an appearance at the Rockaway Beach Festival (UK) on October 8th, Killing Joke will embark on an extensive headline European tour over the autumn / winter period; a 25-date run of shows with a Belfast date on Halloweed Night in Limelight1 and concluding in Belgium on December 5th, taking in 16 different territories along the way.

In preparation for their return to the road, Killing Joke have unveiled the apocalyptic ‘New Cold War’ video directed by long-term associate / designer, Mike Coles…watch it below

‘New Cold War’ is taken from Killing Joke’s 16th studio album, ‘Pylon’, which entered the UK charts at No. 16 giving the band their highest official chart entry in 21 years and third highest ever.

As always with the Joke, ‘Pylon’ is very much music as ritual – raw, uncompromising and precisely-targeted lyrically; proof that Jaz Coleman, Geordie, Youth & Big Paul, the original KJ personnel, are currently delivering the best and most relevant material of their career, with no mellowing or softening of the edges getting in the way.

With collective nostrils flared and righteous anger carried torch-high, Killing Joke continue to take their music of resistance to fresh levels, and a new single / video (from the ‘Pylon’ album) will be released in advance of the tour.

NEWS: Revocation launches new track, "Profanum Vulgus", and studio video

On July 22nd, Revocation release their most dynamic, boundary-pushing and weighty record to-date: Great Is Our Sin.

The band has also released another track from the album, entitled "Profanum Vulgus". The song can be streamed at: soundcloud.com.

Additionally, Revocation has just released a video providing in-depth footage from the recording process of Great Is Our Sin, which can be viewed at: metalblade.com/revocation - where the record can be pre-ordered in various formats and the previous singles ("Communion" and "Monolithic Ignorance") can be streamed.

The lyric video for "Crumbling Imperium" can also be seen below.

Reuniting with producer Zeuss (Hatebreed, Bleeding Through), who also helmed 2014'sDeathless and 2012's Teratogenesis EP, Great Is Our Sin packs the requisite punch, yet retains the organic feel with which it was conceived.

Known for their technical prowess, the band remained dedicated to upping the ante without ever losing sight of the importance of good songwriting. Whilst the lineup has changed over the ten years Revocation has been in existence, David Davidson's (guitars / vocals) passion has never waned, and they are arguably sounding better than ever as they look toward the future. "We can't wait to bring these songs out on the road and perform them for different audiences all over the world," Davidson comments. "'Great Is Our Sin' is a new chapter for the band, and collectively we feel that it is our defining record to date."

NEWS: Testament to release new album five days before Dublin date

LEGENDARY bay area thrash metal giants Testament have announced the title and release date of their highly anticipated upcoming 12th album.

‘The Brotherhood Of The Snake’ will be released on October 28th, 2016 via Nuclear Blast – just five days before they play in Dublin with Amon Amarth and Grand Magus.

The album was recorded by producer Juan Urteaga (Exodus, Heathen, Machine Head), guitarist Eric Peterson and singer Chuck Billy - and is currently being mixed and mastered by producer Andy Sneap (Accept, Arch Enemy, Cradle Of Filth, Kreator, Machine Head, Megadeth).

Testament were one of the first thrash metal band to emerge from the San Francisco Bay Area in the 1980's, originally formed as 'Legacy' in 1983 by founding members Eric Peterson (rhythm guitar), Derrick Ramirez (guitar) and Louie Clemente (drums), the line-up included vocalist Steve Souza and Greg Christian (bass).

Ramirez was later replaced by Alex Skolnick (lead guitar). Souza soon departed to join Exodus and suggested that the imposing Chuck Billy take over as frontman. The band became known as 'Testament' three years later while recording their debut album in Ithaca, New York. ‘The Legacy’ was a brutal introduction in 1987, putting Testament at the forefront of the flourishing thrash metal scene.

Following ‘Live At Eindhoven’, an EP recorded at Holland's Dynamo Festival, ‘The New Order’ (1988) was very well received, producing one of the band's most memorable classics ‘Disciples Of The Watch’.

ALBUM REVIEW: Raging Speedhorn roar back into life on new release Lost Ritual

WHEN Raging Speedhorn first started out on their musical odyssey things seemed to be bubbling along nicely, releasing several acclaimed albums and achieving pretty much cult status, then things went a bit pear-shaped.

But, somehow they resurrected themselves, and when they played Hammerfest a year and a half ago the band seemed re-vitalised, and just as angry as ever.

Now, they are about to embark on a UK-tour and release their new platter of nasty, heavy as hell, collection of tunes, 'Lost Ritual' - and this is Raging Speedhorn as we should hear them.

Lyrical fury melded with music to stomp about the living room, never mind the mosh pit.

There are few, if any weak points on this release, but there are high points in abundance. 'Evil or Mental', 'The Hangman' and epic closer 'Unleash The Serpent' are tracks that can stand head and shoulders with any other current band's output.

That the band were forced to undertake a Pledge campaign to compile this album is criminal at a time when so much mediocre material is 'snapped up' by labels. Perhaps labels get confused by Raging Speedhorn; after all they don't fit neatly into pre-judged genres.

The band teeter between metal and hardcore and don't seem to give a fuck about where you classify them. 'Ten Of Swords' is sludge and hardcore, but above all a stormer of heaviness, while the track that follows 'Dogshit Blues' starts with an urgent a metal riff.

This is an album that deserves a wide audience, acclaim and listener base.

Pledgers will have received their copy by now, and a wider release will be underway soon. You can also pick up a copy if you hit up any of their tour dates in the UK.

Review by Jonny

The UK tour sees Raging Speedhorn play with Stoneghost and Belfast's own By Any Means. It kicks off of July 15th in Colchester and runs until 23rd July in London.

NEWS: Gojira release new video ahead of BOA date and autumn tour

AHEAD of their Bloodstock appearance on August 13th Gojira have debuted their official music video for ‘Low Lands.’ (See it below)

Taken from their chart topping new album ‘Magma’, ‘Low Lands’ and its music video are streaming now on the Gojira’s official YouTube channel. The captivating video – directed by band members Joe and Mario Duplantier’s cousin, Alain Duplantier – was shot at the brothers’ family home in Ondres, France.

Joe Duplantier said: “It is an intimate and poetic piece directed by our dear cousin and friend Alain Duplantier. One of the ‘characters’ featured in this film is ‘Gayeres’ the family house where Mario and I grew up.

“We jammed to our first songs, started Gojira, and recorded most of our albums there. Our sister Gabrielle also contributed to the making of this video. We want to thank all the wonderful people who worked hard to make this happen and all our fans for supporting us with so much passion and respect.

“We hope you'll enjoy the trip as much as we do.”

Last month Gojira returned with their widely acclaimed new LP MAGMA to take the #1 spot on Billboard’s ‘Hard Rock Albums’ chart making them the first French band to hold the #1 spot on the chart in its nine year existence. 

The release of MAGMA marked the highest chart debuts of Gojira’s career around the globe.

This autumn, after their 13^th August Bloodstock slot Gojira embark on an extensive North American headline tour with Tesseract. The band returns to the UK from November 23rd, in support of Alter Bridge. Volbeat and Like A Storm also perform. Tickets are on sale now for the arena shows, which don’t include any Irish dates.

MAGMA has been heralded by two stunning visuals pieces for album tracks “Silvera” and “Stranded.” “Silvera” is accompanied by a Drew Cox directed music video shot in New York City, which has received over 1.5 Million views on Gojira’s official YouTube channel while the official video for “Stranded,” directed by Vincent Caldoni, has already garnered 2.1 Million views and charted in the Top 25 on Spotify’s US Viral 50 chart. 

NEWS: Grossman comin' atcha with new material

OKAY - sometimes you re-write press releases, sometimes they are way too long, but when it comes to someone you have respected then what the hell, just post it and to hell with the consequences...

German musical virtuoso Hannes Grossmann (Alkaloid, Blotted Science, Hate Eternal, ex-Obscura, ex-Necrophagist) has released a 7 minute trailer for his second solo album entitled The Crypts of Sleep.

The teaser features samples of multiple songs from the forthcoming album which is planned for a mid August release.

After successfully crowdsourcing the funds to independently release his critically acclaimed debut album The Radial Covenant in 2014, Grossmann has decided to follow the same approach for his much anticipated follow-up, The Crypts of Sleep.

The new album was entirely written, arranged, self-recorded and self-produced by Grossmann between September 2015 and June 2016 at his own Mordor Sounds studio in Veitsbronn, Germany. Grossmann plays drums on the entire album and enlisted the the help of numerous all-stars in the extreme music scene including Danny Tunker (Alkaloid, Abhorrent, ex-Aborted) - Rhythm and Lead Guitars, Linus Klausenitzer (Obscura, Alkaloid, Noneuclid) - Bass, Morean (Alkaloid, Dark Fortress, Noneuclid) - Vocals, Christian Muenzner (Spawn of Possession, ex-Obscura, ex-Necrophagist) - Lead Guitars, Fountainhead (ex-Obscura, Despotic) - Lead Guitars, Per Nilsson (Scar Symmetry) - Lead Guitars, and Erik Rutan (ex-Morbid Angel, Hate Eternal) - Lead Guitars.

Complete details and packages for The Crypts of Sleep can be found via Indiegogo HERE. The album will see it's official release later this year and features incredible artwork from Swiss artist Milan Hofstetter.   

Listen to "To Sow The Seeds of Earth" via Soundcloud HERE.

Hannes Grossmann talked about the new material and the campaign via a video which can be viewed HERE. Additionally he added the following:

"I can't express how excited I am about my new solo album. This time I came up with very compact arrangements, which make the material sound way more cohesive as a whole. The songs on the album are very melodic, but at the same time I think it's my heaviest output so far.

Besides six brand-new compositions, there are also three songs on the album which I had written for the next Obscura album before I quit the band. I love those songs, so I decided to keep them for my second solo release - and here we are...

I guess you could call this album one of the heaviest melodic death metal albums ever - if you're a friend of superlatives. You could also call it 'Iron Maiden Death Metal" - and you probably wouldn't be that far off the truth. However, I would call 'The Crypts Of Sleep' a worthy sequel of what was started on Obscura's 'Cosmogenesis', and what I developed on 'Omnivium' and my last solo output 'The Radial Covenant."

About Hannes Grossmann

Born September 8th 1982, Hannes Grossmann grew up in a musical family and started playing the piano at the age of 8. Two years later he chose the drums as second instrument, which soon should become his main passion. By learning different styles of drumming such as rock, jazz, fusion, funk and latin and taking lessons with Canadian teacher Donnie MacKay, Hannes developed an own style by combining all these different musical approaches with extreme Metal drumming.

Hannes’ got his first professional obligation in 2003, becoming a member of German Technical Death Metal band Necrophagist, a band which back then was rather unknown to most people. After recording and releasing the critically acclaimed album “Epitaph” in 2004 the underground status of Necrophagist changed completely: From 2005 until early 2007 Hannes played around 200 concerts with Necrophagist all over the world and gained popularity in the global metal scene.

In 2007 Hannes left Necrophagist in order to finish his master degree in business administration. In order to accomplish his own musical vision, he joined an underground band named OBSCURA. The empty place behind the drums in Necrophagist was taken by drum legend Marco Minnemann, one of Hannes’ favorite and most influential drummers.

In 2008 OBSCURA was able to get a worldwide deal with US label RELAPSE RECORDS and one year later the metal music press was stunned by the virtuosity the band showed on their album “Cosmogenesis”, which immediately cracked US billboard charts.

In 2010 Hannes was invited to become part of BLOTTED SCIENCE, an extreme Metal super group featuring Alex Webster (Cannibal Corpse) and Ron Jarzombek (Watchtower, Spastic Ink), with whom he recorded the critically acclaimed EP “The Animation of Entomology” – released in late 2011.

In 2011 Hannes was extremely productive. Not only recording and releasing the BLOTTED SCIENCE record, he both recorded his second album for OBSCURA, entitled “Omnivium”, and also produced his first drum DVD – “Progressive Concepts for the Modern Metal Drummer”.

Hannes is a very active clinician, having played at the Dresden Drum Festival 2011, Meinl Drum Festival 2012, E.D.U. Drum Fest 2012, Ammerland Drum Fest 2012, the Adams Drum Festival in 2013, among other masterclass performances.

Hannes is the author of drum educational book entitled “Extreme Metal Drums”, which was published in early 2013 by Hal Leonard. Hannes received a notice award by Modern Drummer Magazine.

In 2013 Hannes recorded his first solo album "The Raidal Covenant", which was released in early 2014. The album features songs Hannes had written for the Obscura, but due to musical differences he decided to release it on his own.

In 2014 Hannes left Obscura in order to fully focus on his new main band ALKALOID, featuring Morean (Dark Fortress, Noneuclid), Christian Muenzner (Obscura, Necrophagist, Spawn of Possession, Eternity's End), Danny Tunker (Aborted, God Dethroned) and Linus Klausenitzer (Obscura, Noneuclid). After successfully funding the album on Indiegogo with a result of 19,119 € the band released its debut album in early 2015, entitled "The Malkuth Grimoire".

Hannes also opened his own recording and mixing facility MORDOR SOUNDS.

In 2015 Hannes joined the ranks of legendary Florida Death Metal machinery HATE ETERNAL as a touring drummer.

LIVE REVIEW: Thunder and rumble as heavyweight sets from War Iron, Nomadic Rituals and Molarbear level Limelight

WHEN a gig is billed as 'Heaviness Can't Wait: Midsummer Murdered' some approach it with certain preconceptions, grim looking people, ready to look even grimmer as they 'enjoy' the sludge, doom and general air of serious metal intent.

Which made it all the more surreal to hear a conversation about the best place to buy fabrics in Belfast, the joys of stitching and sewing machines - and two out of the three were men...

The point being, that even within the 'metal community' there is no place for stereotyping audiences or bands. And, no-one should ever think that the sounds that trembled the foundations of Ormeau Avenue are just another predictable set of metal tunes.

Well, when a line-up that includes Molarbear, Nomadic Rituals, and War Iron are on the stage nothing is going to slide into clichés or regurgitate the same riffs.

Their two recent dates in Ballymena and Draperstown have served Molarbear well ahead of this show, as this is perhaps the best set we've seen from the band.

Sure a lot of people just recognise the repeated profanities of 'Swearwolf', but Molarbear are developing into a formidable live act with a lot of nuances to their sound that can be missed by the casual listener.

All three guitars work well together, whether adding to the rhythmic heaviness or laying down licks. Can't wait to hear some recorded material from Molarbear.

For the uninitiated Nomadic Rituals can be an endurance test, but when you lean back and let their sound wash over your senses - if there isn't a genre entitled ambient doom sludge metal then Nomadic Rituals have claimed it as their own.

Craig, Peter and Mark combine their slowed down deathly march of the hellbound with layers of synths and samples that both demand your attention at the same time allows you to sit back and chill amidst the sheer heavy attack.

That attack is slow but that does not diminish the brute strength of the sound as it rumbles, turning listeners inner organs to mush.

With War Iron, you know what you get - and if you don't like it then don't stray within their orbit, because you'll be terrified.

No compromise, no remorse, just heavy, heavy metal, the sound of hell's belch, Satan slowly stalking the hallowed halls of the Limelight, levelling all doubters in his path.

Baggy towering over the cowering crowd, who are trying to cope with let alone comprehend the sludge that oozes from PA and amps - understanding their influences yet stamping their own unique identity, a wall of doom laden riffs.

Since changing from the two bass attack, with Ross taking on guitar duties there is more tonality to the tune.

Opening with the appropriately titled 'Bludgeon Lord' the War Iron have never backed down from their instinctive approach to slowed down metal. Their whole sound is held together by the complex approach of Marty's drums and Dave's bass.

All four excel on a night when the metal was served with added relish. The attendance and reception afforded to the three bands showed that the real heavy bands have and audience - and the reviewer now has a better knowledge of where to buy fabrics should he ever be that way inclined

Review by Jonny. Pics by Jonny and Lizzie

ALBUM REVIEW: Dust Bolt's politicised thrash reaches new level on Mass Confusion

THRASH metal can sometimes be cliché upon cliché, but when it is done right there can be real depth, and the bands that do it right are not constrained by strictures or boundaries.

Such is the case on Dust Bolt's latest release, 'Mass Confusion'; a masterful example of a band growing and evolving. Just take the hauntingly great track 'Exit' or the speedy thrash of 'Turned to Grey' to show the contrast and evolution of the German four-piece.

For quite a 'young' outfit in relative terms they have come a long way in terms of their sound and arrangements on this, their third album outing.

Many bands who pay homage to the Bay Area sound tend to get stuck in the groove of their predecessors without putting their own stamp on it. On this, Dust Bolt, have taken the sound of the past, added their own twist and produced an album that engages on each subsequent listen.

Lenny's vocals and his intertwining work with fellow axeman Flo are a masterclass in how to perform in the studio without sacrificing intensity.

Opener, 'Sick X Brain' is a one minute blast of fury that sounds like Suicidal Tendencies on steroids mating with early Exodus.

The sheer pace of the track might showcase the work of bassist Bene and drummer Nico, but their rhythmic sensibilities aren't confined to blasting out thrash tropes. There is sufficient variety to keep listeners interested.

What is clear too, that for all the power the band never sacrifice the opportunity for appropriate melody, nor do they ever get away from the opportunity for shouting!

That's not to say that Dust Bolt indulge in typical themes, but tackle international political themes and reflect their rage at the state of the planet throughout.

Mass Confusion is not only an album for thrash fans, but for all fans of metal who need a little more variety in their music life.

Review by Jonny

NEWS: Alter Bridge seven UK dates with Volbeat, Gojira and Like A Storm

ALTER BRIDGE have announced their long-anticipated return to Europe! Their biggest headline shows yet, the 24-date tour treks 15 countries and kicks off on November 4, 2016. Included are seven UK dates – but nothing for Belfast or Dublin…

Produced by Michael 'Elvis' Baskette, Alter Bridge’s fifth studio album is planned for release in October 2016, via Napalm Records. Fortress, the band’s widely acclaimed 2013 album, swept into charts worldwide - including the UK at #6, USA at #12 (Billboard 200), Germany at #7, and Austria at #4. Fans can look forward to hearing new songs on the tour, as well as their favourites!

Special guests include Danish rockers, VOLBEAT, who released their sixth album, Seal The Deal & Let's Boogie, earlier this month. French metal group, GOJIRA, will be giving fans a taste of their crushing new album, Magma, and up-and-comers, LIKE A STORM, jet in from New Zealand to get the party started.

UK dates are:

Wed 23rd Nov - MANCHESTER, England - Arena

Thu 24th Nov - LONDON, England - O2 Arena

Sat 26th Nov - NOTTINGHAM, England - Motorpoint Arena

Sun 27th Nov - BIRMINGHAM, England - Genting Arena

Mon 28th Nov - CARDIFF, Wales - Motorpoint Arena

Thu 1st Dec - GLASGOW, Scotland - Hydro

Fri 2nd Dec - LEEDS, England - First Direct Arena

NEWS: Bloodstock day ticks released and YouTube channel competition

IT’S just six short weeks ‘til the gates at Catton Park open, and the metal hoards flood onto the hallowed turf for BLOODSTOCK 2016!  To celebrate, day tickets are now on sale!  Ticket prices have been frozen for the FOURTH year running at £60 each (+ booking fee) and are available from http://bloodstock.seetickets.com/event/bloodstock-2016/catton-park/902838.

If you can’t make it for the whole weekend, come join the metal party for just one day and catch one of 2016’s headliners; the legendary TWISTED SISTER on Friday for their last ever UK show, prog metal titans MASTODON on Saturday, or closing out the weekend on Sunday, global thrash icons, SLAYER.  There's plenty more to keep you entertained, just check the daily line ups here. 

VIP tickets and packages are moving VERY quickly this year and there's not many left.  If you've left it 'til the last minute to pick up VIP or VIP upgrades in years past, don't delay this time as they WILL sell out soon.  Grab your VIP tix without delay to avoid disappointment.

On Facebook, Twitter or Google +?  Want the chance to win a pair of tickets to BLOODSTOCK?!  Sure you do!  Here’s how you can get involved.  It's very simple…

Subscribe to the official BLOODSTOCK YouTube Channel (bloodstockfestivals), then have a look through all our awesome video clips.  Pick your favourite video from the channel and publicly share it on your network of choice; Facebook, Twitter or Google+.  If you’re already subscribed to our YouTube channel, just pick your choice and share.  Simples!  If you share on Facebook, make sure you set the audience of the post to 'public' so we can see it on your wall.  If we can't see it, your entry won't be counted.

Each week between now and the festival weekend in August, the BLOODSTOCK webmaster will trawl the 'shares' from our YouTube Channel and select a winner at random to win a pair of weekend tickets!

There’ll also be other ‘spot’ prizes for randomly selected winners during this period, including ‘Upgrade’ vouchers that convert a standard ticket to a Serpents Lair VIP hospitality ticket (you’ll need to already have a standard ticket in hand to activate the upgrade, or you can purchase one if you win the ‘upgrade’ voucher), a raft of BLOODSTOCK and band merchandise goodie bags, or the chance for you and a mate to watch side stage for selected band performances!  So plenty of opportunities to win, by merely sharing a video on your page.

Be sure to share from the official ‘bloodstockfestivals’ YouTube channel or your entry won’t be registered.  A direct link to the Bloodstock Youtube channel is https://www.youtube.com/user/Bloodstockfestivals

So get sharing those favourite official Bloodstock Festival YouTube channel clips for your chance to be a lucky winner.

NEWS: Not just Pat and The Answer - fourth stage added to Ramblin Man Fair

RAMBLIN Man are proud to announce the addition of the Rising Stage and a further 12 acts to the bill. In partnership with Laney Amplification, TAMA drums, and Andertons Music Company, the Rising Stage features the best of UK’s up-and-coming artists, including:

Colour of Noise, Cats in Space, Massive Wagons, City of Thieves, The Naked Six, Mason Hill, Dirty Thrills, Illustr8tors, StoneBroken, Will Wilde, Wicked Stone and Bigfoot.

Spirit Of Rock Director Chris Ingham reminds us, "With all the concerns over our collective tomorrows with the Brexit, Ramblin' Man Fair invites you to chill out and take a more reassuring view of the UK’s horizon. Having seen all these bands kick out the jams recently, we can predict with an absolute certainty that the future of UK rock 'n roll is secure. It's a diverse line-up: a true mix of styles across two days, but it's absolutely packed with quality. Miss 'em at your peril!"
  Bruce John Dickinson (from Colour of Noise) helped to coordinate the stage, and had this to say, "It is a real privilege to be involved in putting the Rising Stage together for the immensely cool Ramblin' Man festival. Hats off to the team at Ramblin’ Man, who had the vision to support the concept, and to our amazing sponsors who made the stage possible.”

"There is no denying that we are witnessing a wave of great new bands committed to old school rock 'n roll values getting out there and putting on a great show. There is real feeling of community with the acts and this stage celebrates that friendship and support. At this time of disunity, music pulls us all together. Peace!"



Now in its second year, Ramblin' Man (23rd to 24th July 2016) is bigger, better, and with the addition of the Rising Stage the festival offers even more choice and variety.

Following from a hugely successful inaugural year in 2015, Ramblin’ Man Fair returns in 2016. Already announced is the stellar lineup of WHITESNAKE (Saturday Headliners),BLACK STONE CHERRY (Sunday Headliners), THIN LIZZY,THUNDER, Airbourne, Europe, Ginger Wildheart, The Answer,  FAMILY, Purson, Cadillac Three, The Dead Daises, Terrovision, Devin Townsend and Ché Aimee Dorval ‘Casualties of Cool’ The Graveltones, Warren Haynes, Procol Harum, Uriah Heep, Hawkwind, Von Hertzen Brothers, Blurred Vision, Whiskey Myers, Hogjaw, Road Dog, Pat McManus, The Fierce And The Dead, Frost*, IO Earth, Bob Wayne, The White Buffalo, Life Signs, Hayseed Dixie, Walter Trout, King King, The Kentucky Headhunters, Headspace, Inglorious and The Zombies, Tax The Heat, The Supersuckers, SIMO and Sons of Royalty. Joining them in 2016 are…

Weekend and Day Tickets On Sale Now

Weekend General Admission – £130.00 *
Weekend VIP - £225.00 *
Saturday General Admission - £75.00 *
Saturday VIP - £125.00 *
Sunday Genral Admission - £75.00 *
Sunday VIP - £125.00 *

*Not Including Booking Fee

Ticket Link - http://ramblinmanfair.seetickets.com/

ALBUM REVIEW: Jorn lands with classic covers album

NORWAY's own heavy metal Thor, Jorn Lande, returns with a new album of cover versions ranging from Kate Bush to Iron Maiden entitled 'Heavy Rock Radio'. But does the album deliver as much hammer as Thor’s hammer Mjölnir

Starting with Frida's (the dark haired one from Abba) 'I know There's Something Going On' didn't initially inspire much confidence but Christ does it rock! The structure of the song totally lends itself to the heavy metal treatment and witg heavy, filled in riffs and an excellent solo from Trond Holter - it's an encouraging start.

Messing with teenage wet dream Kate Bush's song 'Running Up That Hill' in principle shouldn't have worked but he bloody nails it. Loaded up with guitar, bass, drums and Jorn’s raspy vocals it's like a totally new song.

Foreigners 'Rev on The Red Line' still has that Foreigner feel to it but with a much heavier sound and the synths pushed firmly into the background.

So far, so good, but John Farnham's 'You’re The Voice' throws up the first issue. The arrangement is excellent and it really works with a heavy guitar influence but those guitars are used  to replace part of the vocals on the chorus and this lessens its impact. Thankfully this is put right in the second part of the song but it could've been so much better the whole way through as Jorn’s vocals are excellent. Didn't really need to turn the pages over....

The pop rock offering of Paul Stanleys 'Live to Win' is in much need of a boot up the arse and gets it here. Much heavier with a Scandanavian/ European vibe to it, this version is much better than the MTV-era influenced original

Okay, 'Don't Stop Believing' has been done to death.....but not like this! Leaving out the piano and focusing on guitar with the bass playing the lower tones the piano normally would play, Lande sticks rigidly to the songs structure but his raspy vocal delivery breathes new life into it.

'Killer Queen' is up next. There are some Queen songs that would be better suited to getting the heavy treatment (Don't stop Me Now springs to mind) but this one should probably have been left alone. It's not that its bad but as Jorn himself says on the liner notes:"I'll let the listener decide if the outcome was auccessful" This version could cause more social media chatter than the Brexit vote!

Covering the iconic Eagles tune 'Hotel California' may well be sacrosanct in some quarters but thankfully they did as its an absolute belter of a version. Staying close to the original and keeping it fairly simple there is a whole new dimension to this song. A much more menacing vocal delivery gives it depth and the guitar outro is just killer. Album highlight so far.

Anyone familiar with Lande’s back catelogue will know he's at his best when he takes on Ronnie James Dio and David Coverdale. His Dio cover album and the ‘Snakes' Once Bitten album are perfect examples. So, the fact that this version of 'Rainbow in the Dark' is superb is no surprise. It maintains all the elements of the Dio original but with a much heavier sound. The trick with singing an RJD song is to try and get his unique phrasing and pinched off vocals correct and Jorn manages to do this really well without sounding like a copycat. Great version of the song.

Surprisingly Iron Maiden get the full Jorn treatment with his offering of 'The Final Frontier'. Sans the snoozefest that is Satelitte 15 as an intro the song is tighter. Jorn does an excellent job on the vocal without ever trying to sound like Bruce. It probably misses the trademark Maiden three guitar sound but it's still an excellent version.

'Stormbringer' is song that sees Coverdale get, err, covered. It’s another outstanding version as Jorn is right in his comfort zone singing this stuff.

Album closer 'Die Young' is a great effort at a Dio-era Sabs song. There are no dramatic changes to the original just cleaner vocals and new, original and energetic guitar parts. A great way to finish the album off.

Overall this is good fun and a damn good listen. Personal choice will always dictate favourites but it's worth getting to discuss Killer Queen alone.

Review by Andy Gillen