LIVE REVIEW: Terrific return from Trivium in Belfast barnstormer showcase

THE fact that so many of the crowd in Belfast's Limelight1 on Sunday (12th February) grew their metal stripes at the same time as Trivium were breaking through as a band were earning plaudits and packed venues.

The first time the band played in Belfast it resulted in a crush barrier collapsing under the weight of crowd enthusiasm, and the band have been loyal to the city ever since - and in return the fans deliver rapturous response upon each visit.

Shvpes provided an energetic opening act on the bill, however, apart from the few at the front familiar with their work their first few songs they received a polite response from the gathering crowd.

The post-hardcore sound was maybe a little too out there for many, but their energy won over many as the set progressed. Mismatched they may have been with the bill, but the Birmingham five-piece deserve Kudos for not wavering.

By the same measure Sikth didn't waver despite being a man down with Pin absent for personal reasons, leaving Dan Weller to fill in. Not that this affected the response from an audience who are devoted to the English prog/math masters.

Mikee Goodman and Joe Rosser are like manic puppet masters pulling at the strings of the crowd as soon as they opened the set with 'Philistine Philosophies' and 'Part of the Friction'.

To be fair to Sikth they have evolved many miles since they were labelled, perhaps unfairly, as part of the djent movement in the early era of the 2000s. They include as many melodic elements, which comes to the fore just enough not to make them predictable. Nor are they complacent.

There is adulation for the band and they return it with humour and self-deprecation, including Mikee's spoken word intro to 'When Will The Forest Speak...?'

That so many of the audience know the words to each line is a tribute to the passion Sikth invoke. And, with the hint of a return to Belfast it seems they'll receive a warm welcome.

To say that the reception Trivium receives is warm is an under-statement as the Limelight roars out every line of the 'Run To The Hills' intro. From the opener of 'Rain' the adulation crackled like static, with pits and crowd surfing mere symbols to the feeling of almost all present.

They tear into 'Forsake Not The Dream' before Matt Heafy speaks to the audience and throughout he recalls the bands first visit to Belfast.

Paolo Gregoletto, like Heafy encourages ever more intense circle pits and as audience members surf above the rest sing every word of 'Down From The Sky'.

With an impressive assuredness they weave newer and older material together as Heafy and Corey Beaulieu trade licks and runs and manage a sublime version of 'Entrance of the Conflagration' among many of the higlights.

'Dying In Your Arms' may be steeped with the soul of In Flames, but Trivium's melodic take is their own crafting and excellence drawing more of the audience to risk life and limb in pits and surfing.

There is not a foot put wrong, nor a beat missed as they rolled the Limelight in their hands like malleable putty, a putty willingly taken and moulded through tracks such as 'Dusk Dismantled' and 'Throes of Perdition'.

'Silence In The Snow' maybe more recent, but is greeted like an old friend, and that is perhaps why Trivium have enjoyed continuous success. Their sound has evolved, they have experimented and some would say they have made mistakes, but each time they take any lessons and influences and carve their own path.

Sure, they have been through a few drummers over the past decade, but never compromised on wanting a dynamic drum sound and Alex Bent fits the bill behind the kit.

This was only the second night of the European tour but the band exude a tight, professional approach, but without the contrivances many acts fall prey to. All present know it will be pretty much the same set for those dates, but that doesn't mean it is metronomic.

Heafy and Beaulieu have sufficient looseness in their playing that is balanced with the execution of some stunning guitar work, while Gregoletto wields his bass like an instrument designed to torture the lower registers in the most exquisite of manners.

'Gunshot to the Head of Trepidation' snaps and snarls as if a fresh song, while the closing duo of 'Pull Harder On The Strings of Your Martyr' and 'In Waves' leave the crowd sated for now - but begging for a speedy return to these shores.

Trivium take their status and success to date seriously - that is why their performance, and its reception, is at a premier league level. Band and fans joined together elevated to another level on a Sunday night - smiles and aching necks.

Review by Jonathan Traynor
Pictures by Darren McVeigh (MetalplanetBelfast)

LIVE REVIEW: Heat One of Metal2TheMasses kicks off the battle for a Bloodstock slot

YOU know when Metal2TheMasses is underway when 'real' adults appear in Limelight2. Not, that everyone who normally attends isn't above the statutory admittance age - it's just that these are responsible adults. Also known as parents of band members.

Seeing these responsible adults gives one a sense of assurance that their offspring's efforts to learn a new guitar line, drum fill of bass run, not to mention shipping them to rehearsals has been worth the effort to see their sprogs enter into the fray for a cherished spot at Bloodstock.

By Darren McVeigh

In an evening of varied styles all four bands in this first heat played half hour sets that were entertaining and engaging in front of a relatively healthy turn-out.

With the bands chosen order as usual not pre-determined it was up to Erosion that were up first. These experienced musicians delivered their usual well performed selection of tracks, with Martin particularly impressive. However, at times Mark's vocals were a bit strained.

The excellence of their alt take on metal was, however, on the evening, a little bit at odds with some of the arrangement of the set, and announcing a track as 'hardcore' was perhaps a mistake. That said their use of intro samples and the overall aural wall bodes well.

By Darren McVeigh

Travelling up from Co. Armagh Periapt struggled with tuning during the set, but once they got going their brand of groove with tech touches worked well. Relatively static on stage was understandable given the enormity of the prize at stake.

Which, of course is a slot on the Bloodstock line-up with all that entails - to be on a line-up with Megadeth, Amon Amarth, Blind Guardian, Hatebreed, Testament, Decapitated etc. Given Periapt's hard rock groove they may need to toughen up their sound a little to fight for a slot in the future. That said there is obvious potential.

Beyond the Beneath were playing their first show and their first time they'd lined up as a three-piece. From the off the passion and the ability was clear, as was their use of the stage to its full extent.

By Lizzie Torbitt

The punk edged metal was mixed with groove and a grasp of tight musical arrangements. Colum's lead runs were tight and not overblown, while Davy's bass work and vocals were only matched by the silly in between tracks banter. There are still a few rough edges to be knocked off, but given this was their début that was a minor issue.

Rosco's Riot came on with a wall-of noise, intense and over-flowing with groove. Tim towered over the audience; full-on playing. At times the sound was cluttered, drowning out Tim's vocals, but the riffing was only matched by a peerless union of James and Craig's tightly woven rhythms.

It was clear that Rosco's Riot had brought the most support, guaranteeing they would get a substantial vote from the audience. However, you cannot gather that level of support without a good set and a substantial set of songs.

By Lizzie Torbitt

As always with Metal2TheMassses voting weight was 50% from the audience and 50% from the collective judging panel.

Qualifying for the semi-finals are: Rosco's Riot and Beyond The Beneath.

Review by Jonathan Traynor
Pictures by Darren McVeigh and Lizzie Torbitt (as marked)

ALBUM REVIWEW: Elegy to agonies on Anatomy of Loss from The Crawling

THE agonies of life, the pain of loss, the morose mundane existence of 21st Century life - yes The Crawling haven't released a happy clappy début album full of soaring choruses and posed pretentiousness with 'Anatomy of Loss'.

It is sourced from living in a bleak commuter town pretending to be a city; concrete corrosiveness and a stark pretentious populace blithely living in a bubble of hyper-normalisation, consumerism, avoiding reality lest it intrude on their narcissistic lives.

Andy, Stuart and Gary have produced an album ridden with pain, as they say on 'Poison Orange' the sense of "drowning in horror" pervades each tortured note.

If there is hope to be taken from this album, it is only the almost cathartic realisation that others share your loathing for what passes as civilisation.

Musically doom, sludge and bleak metal have been absorbed into a sensibility where the despair on "Acid On My Skin" is the most 'cheerful' sounding track, with its terror and chorus about tearing out ones own eyes.

However, while there is a monochrome level within the subject matter there is a three-dimensional element to each track. The careful use of repetitious riffage is matched by subtle changes of mood, with Gary's measured deployment of fills rather than trying to overwhelm each track, such as when after a minute of 'The Right To Crawl' the speed moves from up a little, emphasising the full-tilt lyrical rant.

On the same track Andy and Stuart pick out with delicacy the space for the listener to briefly surface, gulp a mouthful of oxygen before returning to the ocean of bile.

This is not an album to sit lightly and play in the background; this is an album to, like that ocean of bile, to immerse yourself in; wallow in its fear and anger.

Anger is probably the best way to characterise the feeling as you contemplate the words. It is a brooding anger that loathes itself as it lashes out at a putrid world. For every careful note chosen there is a sense of hatred, a resonance of personal distrust and an elegy to agonies thrust upon the individual.

There are no brief interludes as each song is given the right length, with the shortest song, 'All Our Failings' just shy of four and a half minutes.

What it does mean is that on the likes of 'Violence Vanity and Neglect' the timing is such that it is the metal equivalent of Tantric Sex - delaying the climactic musical moment to ensure each feeling is savoured like barbed wire drawn across taut skin.

Closer 'Catatonic' caresses the inner fears with a depth and development of the song such as to take loss and yearn for a return that is never possible. Like all songs on this release the arrangement and the pacing match the lyrics and music perfectly.

It is unfair to pick a 'best' track from an album such a 'Anatomy of Loss' as all stand true to themselves, each of the seven songs to be experienced as one idea. The art and craft of writing albums has not been lost on The Crawling.

Long may their misery master over our aural needs.

Review by Jonathan Traynor

Anatomy of Loss will be officially launched on Saturday, April 8th in Limelight2, with support from Valpurga and Shourded.

NEWS: Prong set for summer return to Belfast

POWER trio Prong are coming back to Belfast as part of a summer tour across Europe, with a Voodoo show on 19th July with Belgian thrash outfit Spoil Engine.

Tickets, priced £16.50 (+bking fee) are on sale now for the show, which if it is even half as bad as the last time they played is one not to miss!

The Distortion Project show is part of the a tour to back the release of their new album 'Zero Days' which is set for release ahead of the tour.

Tommy Victor said: “Europe is a special place for PRONG and 2017 is shaping up to be another touring year for the history books. Many great festivals and great clubs are on the agenda and we will be bringing some new music along as well! We are extremely excited!”

ALBUM REVIEW: MIchael Schenker Fest live in Tokyo celebrates all that is great about rock

WAY back in the 80s the Michael Schenker played twice in Belfast's Ulster Hall as part of a set of tours that encapsulated what that era represented; a cross over from the classic era of early Scorpions, UFO, Purple, Zep and Sabbath and the burgeoning newer metal and hard rock sounds.

Bands sounds were metamorphosing from the days when Tokyo Tapes, Live and Dangerous and Strangers in the Night were being exceeded as new benchmarks were set as live performances took on ever better set-ups in terms of PA systems and dynamics and delivery what were enhanced with more and more sophisticated songwriting - snappy tracks sitting comfortably with extended jams and solos.

Schenker embraced that new period and stamped his mark with four landmark studio albums in the 1980s and one live epic recorded in Japan, 'Live At The Budokan'.

Now 35 years on from that release Schenker is set to release 'Michael Schenker Fest Live in Japan' a celebration of those past years that re-unites Michael with vocalists Gary Barden, Graham Bonnet and Robin McCauley in a two CD/DVD set (also on Blu-Ray and Vinyl).

The sumptuous packaging comes with  an insert booklet - and in the centre spread there is a picture of the band, Michael at the centre arms aloft with 'V' peace signs thrust into the air and a smile spread across his face.

It is a single image that captures what is laid out in each of the songs. This is a group of musicians that now realise the glory that they achieved and the joy they brought to hundreds of thousands of people - and there's no need to let that lie in the memory when you can bring it once again to living, breathing essential life.

From the introduction and 'Into The Arena' there is a palpable sense of vibrancy around every performance - sure Schenker is at the centre of everything with his smooth, melodic playing and astonishing lead work - but Ted McKenna (drums), Chris Glen (bass) ad Steve Mann (guitar and keyboards) also seem to be having a ball.

It is no secret that the collection of vocalists and Schenker had a fractious relationship in the past, but it is clear that bygones are bygones and now they all see the legacy that they have.

"It's wonderful how we all got on," said Schenker. "It felt incredibly natural as if it was always like this. Right from the start of rehearsal the chemistry was great. No problems, just pure fun."

Take your pick from the hits and they are there - 'Cry For The Nations', 'Armed and Ready', 'Assault Attack', 'Dancer', 'This Is My Heart' and they are all there as each vocalist takes to the mic to deliver a show that the Japanese audience laps up.

The sound throughout is impeccable on CD and DVD and many of the close-ups of Michael capture the fluidity of his playing that most would struggle to emulate. At times there is a graininess to some of the blacks - and we all know the row of Marshalls is superfluous - but that somehow adds to the whole package. It is not perfect, but then again it never was. Instead the vibrant pulse of rock at its most vital runs strong.

The extended version of 'Rock Bottom' after 'Shoot Shoot' raises the temperature until the obligatory 'Doctor Doctor' ends the show with all three vocalists on stage.

This is a release that captures the era that saw Schenker's influence spread - it's no mistake that Iron Maiden's show always starts with Doctor Doctor booming over the PA.

However, this is not a slice of nostalgia for the sake of it. This is pure and simply a celebration. Michael is still recording and playing new songs, but this is about taking a moment in time, listening, watching and revelling in it.

Review by Jonathan Traynor

Michael Schenker Fest 'Live' Tokyo featuring the original MSG vocalists Gary Barden, Graham Bonnet ad Robin McCauley is released on Friday 24th March 217. It is available on 2CD, 2CD+DVD combo, Blu-Ray and Digital.

ALBUM REVIEW: No rest for the wicked as Krysthla release Peace in Our Time

AS soon as you see a band labelled as "extreme", "technical" "progressive" in the accompanying blurb for their release there is in many a reviewers' hearts a slight sense of trepidation. This invariably means more than the statutory three or four listens...

Ho hum, thus we sat down with Krysthla's upcoming release 'Peace In Our Time' and, yes it did take more than the statutory listens to really get the feeling on this eight-track release as we guided our way through the morass of noise to find some gems in this release.

On first listen a couple of tracks seem to have the band channelling their inner Gojira, holding unholy commune with Mastodon and enjoying a telepathic link with early Meshuggah - no bad thing really, but is it anything new.

Well, they have managed to produce an album that goes beyond their influences and adds their own English twist.

Adi Mayes hammers out the vocals with the intensity you'd expect from opener 'The Minor Mystery of Death' through to lengthy closer 'Eternal Oceans' and the musical synchronicity is clear from all five members.

There is no doubt that Neil Hudson and Noel Davis (guitars) have thought long and hard about how they came at the recording process and arrangements, while Carl Davis (bass) and Wayne Minney (drums) attack each track with vigour, seamlessly managing the time changes.

For all that is good from 'Peace In Our Time' it is not without its flaws, with technical slipping into djent at times, clashing with fierce melodic pieces of work.

That said there is enough dexterity in the songs to forgive a little extreme over-exuberance, with the likes of 'Depths' and immensely enjoyable closer more than making up for any quibbles. And, it is well worth digging into the lyrical thematic approaches...

Krysthla have released an album that exceeds the promise of their début album 'A War of Souls and Desires', which is to be expected given the pedigree of  members formerly from Gutworm and Deadeye.

Dig into 'Peace In Our Time' and you'll find rewards - we're currently getting frantic headbanging along to 'In Death We Shall Not Die' and expect to need neck surgery soon.

Review by Jonathan Traynor

NEWS: Cult of Luna prepare for release Years In A Day April release

CULT Of Luna has released nine albums, been awarded the top rock/ metal award at the Swedish National Radio Awards in 2006.

They cemented their status as one of the true progressors of the metal genre with their critically acclaimed album “Mariner”, created together with one of the top post-metal vocalists, Julie Christmas which was also nominated at the Swedish Grammy’s

Now they’re set to release ‘Years In A Day’ on 21st April, the band had this to say about the up and coming release

“A few years ago, we took the decision to keep touring to a minimum. The sole reason was to prevent us from burning out, to keep the flame and the passion burning. But the experiences on the road that we've shared for almost 20 years has been life changing for all of us. It has bounded us together like brothers and we have been given the privilege to interact with incredible people all around the globe.

“So, we thought it was time to release a special object related to the live aspect of Cult of Luna and how we have progressed since the release of “Fire was born” eight years ago. Releasing DVDs and live documents is always a tough thing at all aspects, but that was the right time to do it for the people that are not able to see this band live often and everywhere, and so to end an era.

“The pictures that form the foundation for the art work and promotion are taken by Maria Louceiro. Her work is beyond words, please check it out. Art direction, as usual is handled by Erik Olofsson.” – Cult Of Luna

‘Years In A Day’ is more than just a simple dvd release, it’s a bundle including

• A 2-hour DVD captured in Paris last year at La Gaîté Lyrique.
• 2 live CDs from Roadburn Festival 2013 and 2016.
• A 20 page booklet.
• Download-code for HD video of the entire Paris show + audio files. • All combined in a stunning 10-inch vinyl sized trifold package. • Strictly ltd.to 7000 copies only on www.cultofluna.com

Cult of Luna are - Johannes Persson (Guitars and Vocals), Magnus Lindberg (Drums and Studio-Engineering), Andreas Johansson (Bass), Fredrik Kihlberg (Guitars and Vocals), Kristian Karlsson (Keyboard and Vocals) and Thomas Hedlund (Drums and Percussion). 

NEWS: Black Star Riders added to Ramblin Man Fair line-up together with Danny Worsnop

RAMBLIN Man Fair has added Black Star Riders to what is an already impressive line up for the Maidestone festival on July 28th - 30th.

BSR will play the main stage, with the band already glowing with the success of their recent release 'Heavy Fire' (review is here).

Lead singer Ricky Warwick welcomed the announcement: “BSR are delighted to make their Ramblin' Man debut at this year’s festival.

"Having played there last year with Thin Lizzy and Warwick/Johnson I can vouch for what a wonderful and atmospheric experience it is. Black Star Riders will be ready and primed!”

Joining the Black Star Riders in the latest tranche of announcements are Danny Worsnop (Ex-Asking Alexandira), the mightily impressive blues guitarist, Aaron Keylock, plus Tyler Bryany and the Shakedown, and Lionize.

Northern Ireland acts Trucker Diablo and Screaming Eagles will play the Rising Stage.

The three-day festival will be in its third year with headliners Saxon ZZ Top and Extreme. Among the other acts are Y&T, Last In Line, Graham Bonnet, Dokken, Steve Harris' British Lion, Kansas, Magnum, Focus, Joanne Shaw Taylor, The Quireboys, Monster truck, Dan Baird & Homemade Sin as well as many others.

Weekend and day tickets, plus VIP upgrades can be found here.

ALBUM REVIEW: Battle Beast set the mark high on release number four Bringer of Pain

BATTLE Beast. 'Bringer of Pain'. Some heavy, some light. The perfect mix?

Battle Beast produce some of the best work the first few weeks has seen, with some heavy riffing and technical soloing. This is a rather large roller-coaster with next to no downs but a lot of ups.

The album starts of with ‘Straight To The Heart’ loaded with a chunky riff and excellent vocals from Noora to get the ball rolling. This is a great power metal song. Some very good lyrics like "light me up before I go…" This is a great introduction to the album.

Title track ‘Bringer of Pain’, which is a shift from the previous song as it is more aggressive and with the double bass firing away this is a heavy way to tell the story.

Again there is some very talented guitar playing. These types of songs showcase the range of Nooras' voice as she can sing a metal song and then can deliver a soft well written balled too.

‘King For A Day’ - A change again to a slower nearly a rock song. This about the rotten politicians that seem to think they rule the world and can do what they want with no ramifications. A relevant statement in the current age. 

The next song is the single ‘Familiar Hell’. One of the best songs on the album. Very catchy and one to really sing along to. This song has some great riffs to go alongside the amazing vocals again.

Now onto the best song of the album. Pure power metal glory. It’s as if Battle Beast were channeling their inner Manowar. With lyric like "Bastard son of Odin, Born to kick your ass." This is some great song writing and lyrics to charge into battle singing.

The next song is an odd one. ‘Dancing With The Beast’ is a dance song, in the old 80s style of things. It is a bit confusing but after a few listens and you discover it is a great song. They are showing another genre completely how to do it.

You can't help yourself dancing to this, would fit right into any old school 80s movie and not feel out of place. They've managed to keep the distorted guitars in as well!

The final song of the album is ‘Far from Heaven’, which is a true ballad again showing that they can expand their sound and make some really god music while they're at it. A different way to end an album, most in Battle Beast’s musical space would finish with a fast paced attack but this was a different way to exit and an enjoyable one. Some incredible vocals on show here again.

Overall this album is one to be reckoned with. A good mix of styles and some traditional heavy metal.

This will be their fourth studio album and this shows that they are unique introducing some great ideas to their sound and leaving a lot of paths for them to follow in the future incredible work here. In terms of the broader metal world 2017 has a lot to live up to after this.

Review by Zakk Traynor

LIVE REVIEW: DP fundraiser fills the Belfast evening with METAL!

Saturday evening in Belfast  - the air filled with metal in Belfast's Limelight. And with a host of metal bands - you can't go wrong with. Top tier metal to be had and maybe a beer too.

The first band of the night was Ketos and their breed of melodic thrash metal started the night, and set the tone for the night. This was only their second gig together as well. Some really impressive stuff and incredible talent. Can't wait to see what these guys have planned for the future.

Next up to the chopping block was S.L.U.T.S with their first gig back since the last Metal2TheMasses. With a few line-up changes they managed to keep their sound intact and the same intensity they've had in previous shows.

At times though the vocals where slightly off but other than that a great set. Very good drumming and guitars as always.

Zlatanera played extremely well with some heavy satanic rock. Satan is our pal after all. Good  vocals, riffs, bass and drums. What else would you expect! As this was their first gig since Halloween they played a very good show.

What a way to lighten up the night with some extreme black metal with Drakonis who played an incredible set blasting us to hell. Some complex riffing with chilling vocals.

This was a great set from a great band. With their new EP out it seems that Drakonis are becoming bigger and better. The corpse paint and black metal seems to bring out the evil in people! Seems there hasn’t been a bad set tonight.

Now to the mighty Sinocence. They are as heavy as always. Haven't changed one bit. That isn't a bad thing though as they play with same intensity, same breed of metal that keeps them a staple of Belfast metal.

Good set and by this point the night was well underway and with Vol3 of No Gods, No Masters out soon, anticipation is high for the next move from the Sinners.

The final bad Two Tales of Woe round off a great night with some heavy raw metal that really impressed. Coming from Dublin and playing after Sinocence they played a killer set and brought us some heavy guitars and riffs. On the night of the mighty Black Sabbath’s last ever gig, Belfast was lighting its own fire and it burned bright. A great night all round and a great set of bands.

No better way to spend a Saturday night and as always a doff of the cap to James Loveday for keeping the metal dream alive in Northern Ireland

Review by Zakk Traynor

Photographs by Darren McVeigh

NEWS: The Raven Age sign to BMG, new album out soon ahead of tour and Hammerfest date

Hotly-tipped Brit crew The Raven Age are pleased to announce they have signed a record deal with renowned label BMG.

The band’s debut album ‘Darkness Will Rise’ is set for release March 17, 2017. Pre-order the digipack CD or digital release at: https://bmg.lnk.to/dfCwYEM. A double gatefold vinyl will also be available.

The group’s name is derived from the ravens of the Tower Of London. Historically, ravens were drawn to the tower because of the blood and carrion in which they consumed. They became the guardians of the tower, dwelling within the grounds. Legend has it that if the ravens ever leave or fly away, the tower and monarchy of Britain will fall...

Fred Casimir, BMG’s Executive Vice President Continental Europe states, "We're delighted to be able to sign such a promising new artist ahead of their debut album release.

"The Raven Age are already making their mark on the rock & metal world. There is a huge level of anticipation around 'Darkness Will Rise' and a lot of excitement around what's to come."

The Raven Age are celebrating by sharing brand new song ‘Salem’s Fate’, inspired by the infamous Salem witch trials in 1692.

Founding member/guitarist George Harris comments,"'Darkness Will Rise' entails a wide spectrum of The Raven Age's sound and influence. It's fast, heavy, soft, epic, dynamic and dramatic... All the things we love to hear as fans and take inspiration from. ‘Salem's Fate’ is one of our favourite tracks from the album and the video is a great representation of the dark imagery we enjoy creating."

The full track listing for ‘Darkness Will Rise’ is:

1. Darkness Will Rise

2. Promised Land  (video: https://youtu.be/wyaCCutW7OY)

3. Age Of The Raven

4. The Death March

5. Salem’s Fate

6. The Merciful One

7. Eye Among The Blind

8. Winds Of Change

9. Trapped Within The Shadows

10. My Revenge

11. The Dying Embers Of Life

12. Angel In Disgrace

13. Behind The Mask

The band’s self-titled debut EP has amassed over 2.3 million streams since its release in 2014, when it peaked at #1 on Amazon’s Hot New Release Chart. In 2016, The Raven Age racked up more than half a million Spotify listeners and toured 36 countries, winning over Iron Maiden’s fans in a challenging support slot. No strangers to the road, The Raven Age have also already toured with Mastodon, Gojira, Tremonti, Opeth, and Ghost. The five-piece will traverse Europe through Feb-Mar 2017, as special guests to metal legends Anthrax.  As well as a stream of UK dates those attending HRH Hammerfest will get a chance to check out the band.

NEWS: Sheffield's Regulus prepare for release of album Quadralith

WAY back last September, at HRH Stoner Vs Doom one of the impressive bands we caught were hometown heroes Regulus, who impressed us with their blend of blues and stoner groove, laid out with a heavy backdrop.

Now, the Off Yer Rocka four-piece are set to release their latest body of work, the 10-track 'Quadralith' to be released on 17th March.

The songs on the album are some of the catchiest, heaviest and most riff-fuelled songs from the band to date. The album was recorded at Playing Aloud Studios in Lincoln and produced by bassist Martyn Lucas-Bewick and guitarist Thomas “Oz” Osborne.

Oz: “Our greatest strength as a band since day one has always been our work-ethic and relentless desire to push forward both creatively and practically. Inevitably this brings with it a measure of sacrifice and pressure which can lead to turbulence. ‘Quadralith’ was written and recorded during the most difficult and highest pressure, yet most progressive and forward-looking phase of our existence as Regulus to date, which has led to it being not only our deepest and most honest body of work so far, but also the highest quality both musically and technically.”

NEWS: Hard Rock Hell XI add Dee Snider, Lynchmob and our very own The Answer

Hard Rock Hell unleash a US Invasion of quality bands plus more in their next wave of talent for HRH XI. And, Northern Ireland's The Answer join the line-up too!

Hard Rock Hell are loading up some serious talent and are proud to announce Dee Snider to this year’s already stunning line-up.

Dee Snider performed what band Twisted Sister said were its final shows last year whilst also releasing his solo album. The iconic frontman isn’t done with us yet! Dee is returning this Winter to headline the Thursday evening and unleash a torrent of creative fury at Camp HRH.

Also announced are Lynchmob. One of the most influential 80’s guitarists George Lynch developed a ground-breaking brand of guitar virtuoso, and HRH are proud to welcome this legendary band to the stage.

More talent to cross the Atlantic are HRH Favourites Tyketto and the reformed Femme Fatale.

Expect a big curve ball of anthems from Reef who will be joined by the incredible talents of The Answer, Von Hertzen Brothers and Australia's Black Aces. More stage 2 additions include: Burnt Out Wreck, Syron Vanes, KILLCODE, Florence Black, The Jokers, Fire Red Empress, Colour of Noise, The Kut and Louder Still.

These great bands join the festival's other already-announced bands Airbourne, Y&T, Gun, The New Roses and Syteria

To check out some of these great bands playing HRH XI,

Dee Snider

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k-jhzr-bIXM

Lynch Mob

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R_YyIa57nxk

Tyketto
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kMneTtAf2Uo
Reef
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bihoNRc8GDQ

Line-up stands as

Dee Snider – Airbourne - REEF - Lynch Mob – Y&T - Femme Fatale - Tyketto – Gun - The Answer  – Von Hertzen Brothers - Burnt Out Wreck – Black Aces – Syron Vanes - The New Roses - KILLCODE – Syteria - Florence Black – Colour of Noise -The Jokers – Fire Red Empress - The Kut – Louder Still

HRH XI will take place between Thursday 9th and Sunday 12th Nov 2017, amidst the beautiful landscape of North Wales, at Camp HRH in Pwllheli. 
Further details, ongoing updates, and bookings can be found at:
www.hardrockhell.com

Ticket hotline: 0207 193 1307

NEWS: Trucker Diablo announce series of dates as Pledge campaign nears target

WITH 2016 in the rear view mirror the Trucker Diablo boys are ready to rock 2017.

It's just gone February and the band have secured touring dates with UK Rock Legends Thunder in March.  In addition Trucker will be making appearances on the festival circuit. 

First up will be the Amplified festival featuring the likes of Puddle of Mudd and Diamond Head, followed swiftly by the mighty Rambling Man festival, which features a host of huge names such as ZZ Top, Extreme, Saxon, label mates Screaming Eagles and a load of up and coming acts.

Pic of Trucker Tom

By Lizzie Torbitt

At the end of the year the TD will be hitting Wales for the Annual Rock N' Roll Circus Charity show.

Back at Trucker HQ the boys are in the final stages of their album pledgecampaign, almost 90% funded.

Over the coming months there will be some more live announcements and a surprise announcement so watch the skies for that..

Big Truck Keeps On Rolling....

The new album "Fighting For Everything" promises to be an all out riff monster with a meaty slab of melody, delivered in true Trucker fashion.

NEWS: Bloodstock announces four more bands for August 2017

As 2017 settles in, four more top notch bands have been added for August’s Bloodstock festival.

Swedish metal marauders, Soilwork are confirmed for a main stage slot at Catton Park.

Frontman Björn ‘Speed’ Strid said:  "We are really thrilled to return to UK soil after a killer mini-tour with Arch Enemy last year.  That ended with one of the most spectacular and sweatiest shows to date at The Underworld in London.  

“Bloodstock is always a riot and we cannot wait to hit the stage this summer.  Bring it England!"  Check out their ‘Death In General’ video, taken from 2015’s ‘The Ride Majestic’ album here - https://youtu.be/kme-sxY2pAQ.

‘Murder metal’ outfit, Macbre are set for a headline slot on the Sophie Lancaster stage.  The Chicago-based band blend elements of true crime, math rock, punk, thrash, folk melodies, death metal, jazz fusion, black metal and more.  Guitarist/vocalist, Corporate Death said: “We haven’t been back to the UK in several years but Bloodstock is exactly where Macbre should play if you know our music.” 

Metallic Finns Wintersun are also lined up to headline the Sophie Lancaster stage.  The band are hard at work on new album, ‘The Forest Seasons’ which is set for release this Summer via Nuclear Blast. 

The band said: “It’ll be great to come back to the atmospheric Bloodstock.  We had a blast in 2011, but this year is extra special since we’re going to play new music for you guys!  See ya in August!"  In the meantime, remind yourself of their epic sound with a clip of ‘Time’, taken from 2012’s ‘Time I’ album - https://youtu.be/alo7A0NLmxU.  

Keen to include bands from less obvious parts of the world too, Bloodstock is delighted to welcome back Egyptian death metallers, Scarab to the Sophie stage.  Warm up your neck with the title track for current album, ‘Serpents Of The Nile’ - https://youtu.be/uI6k2oAiGYM, and follow all their latest news at www.facebook.com/Scarabegypt.  The band are currently recording their new album, ‘Martyrs Of The Storm’ so expect some new material at Catton Park this August!

If you’re coming to BLOODSTOCK by coach, you might want to secure your spot now to ensure you’re not disappointed.  BIG GREEN COACH have 21 departure cities for coaches directly to BLOODSTOCK in 2017; Birkenhead, Bournemouth, Bristol, Cardiff, Chester, Glasgow, Gloucester, Leeds, Liverpool, London, Manchester, Middlesbrough, Newcastle, Newport, Oxford, Preston, Sheffield, Southampton, Sunderland, Swansea, and Worcester.  BIG GREEN COACH will bring you, all your camping gear, & beer supplies and drop you hassle free right inside the festival grounds.  Check out the details and secure your seat for only a tenner (the rest is payable in July) over at http://www.biggreencoach.co.uk /events/bloodstock-festival-ti ckets-coach-travel.

Also available now is the very popular ticket deposit plan.  The payment scheme helps ease the pain of paying for your standard weekend ticket by breaking it up into five smaller, more manageable sums.  Sign up in the ticket store before 28th Feb with an initial payment of £34.80.  Thereafter, four additional instalments of £27.80 will debit your bank account on 1st April, May, June and July respectively.  Get full info over at http://bloodstock.seetickets.c om/content/ticket-options.

Already announced for 2017 are Friday’s headliners AMON AMARTH, Sunday’s headliners MEGADETH, plus BLIND GUARDIAN, HATEBREED, TESTAMENT, OBITUARY, BRUJERIA, WHITECHAPEL, SKINDRED, POSSESSED, ANNIHILATOR, MUNICIPAL WASTE, HELL and DECAPITATED.  Many more, including our Saturday headliner are still be announced!  Stay tuned to Bloodstock’s social media for the latest!

Bloodstock takes place at Catton Park, Derbyshire on 10th-13th August 2017.  Standard weekend camping tix are on sale at £139 (plus booking fee), plus limited VIP packages/upgrades and car parking tickets (at a cheaper price than ‘on the day’ purchase) from http://bloodstock.seetickets.c om/content/ticket-options.  Children’s weekend tickets are also available, priced £35 (+ booking fee) and under 4’s go free!  Camper van pitches have now SOLD OUT.

ALBUM REVIEW: Virgin Steele's proposterous and grandiose theatrical metal brought back to CD

SOMETIMES you come across a band and really don't know whether to take them seriously or laugh - remember Manowar signing a contract in blood?

First time round in the late 90s and early noughties when Virgin Steele completed three 'metal operas' on theatrical stages one didn't know whether to take them with the proverbial pinch of salt or write it off as power/symphonic metal taken too far...they even were reviewed in Opera News magazine!

However, sitting down with the re-release of 'Visions of Eden' maybe it is time for a re-evaluation. After all, set aside the operative pomposity 'Visions of Eden' itself was the 11th Virgin Steele album and stands proud in the band's oeuvre.

This month Virgin Steele the album is out as a double CD - one featuring "Barbaric" re-mixes of 'Visions of Eden', the other "Romantic" re-mastering of the same album. Confused? Well, seems a little superfluous on the surface, but with a decent stereo or set of headphones you can notice the differences.

Having said that whether fans of Virgin Steele would want to shell out for another version of 'Visions of Eden' remains a moot point because for those who have maybe had Virgin Steele pass them by this could serve as a good introduction.

There is an excellent variety of styles on display, from the full on power metal ('Childslayer'), symphonic swoops and sweeps ('The Hidden God') and slowed down material ('When Dusk Fell', and ('God Above God') and enough to entertain and ponder.

Of course the 'vision' behind the album was never to re-count a biblical myth, rather a challenge to a belief system that left previous mythos such as paganism and others, especially the male dominated divinity rather than the goddesses of previous beliefs.

Indeed the full title of the album as presented was 'Visions of Eden - The Lilith Project: A Barbaric Romantic Movie Of the Mind'. Overblown? Well what other way would you want your power/symphonic metal?

This is somewhat a rather self-indulgent project (coming after several other Vigin Steele re-releases) to metal fans in the British Isles, but when you go back to this album, like many of Virgin Steele's releases, it stands the test of time, and marks a moment in time when you can at last admit you love all the grandiosity that comes along with it.

Not that we're going to sign anything in blood to that effect!

Review by Jonathan Traynor

Visions of Eden is released on Steamhammer/SPV on 17th February

NEWS: Y&T set for Belfast return in November for Limelight1 show

OAKLAND rock veterans Y&T are making a welcome return to Belfast on Wednesday, November 8th for a Limelight1 show.

If it seems that Y&T have been around forever, its because they have...well since the 1970s. But Dave Meniketti is dragging his crew around the world once again.

It is a tribute to the band's resilience that Meniketti has picked them all up after the death of original bassist to lung cancer that Y&T still continue, all be it with only the one original member at the helm.

With 18 albums and a run of hits that are rotation somewhere in the world as you read this with songs such as 'Summertime Girls', 'Forever' and 'Mean Streak' stuck in the minds of those who grew up as music videos became the norm and MTV still had music on.

Tickets, priced £16.50 (+bking fee) go on sale this Friday

ALBUM REVIEW: Stephen Pearcy hits it out of the park on Smash

With a career spanning over 40 years and legal battles over the ownership of the Ratt moniker seemingly put to bed Stephen Pearcy is back with his fourth solo album ‘Smash’ mixed and mastered by Pearcy himself and bassist Matt Horne.

Track one ‘I Know I’m Crazy’ opens with a strange synth sound before leading into a song with a strong heavy riff mixed with a 90’s sound that’s almost grunge in parts. The first noticeable thing is that although Pearcys’ voice has changed subtly over the years (he is nearly 61) it’s still unmistakably him and still very strong.

‘Ten Miles Wide’ is a straight out and out rocker and the first single off the album (or should that be youtube release) It’s old school Ratt with a retro flair with a modern twist and a cracking solo to go with it!

‘Shut Down Baby’ is the first surprise on the album as it’s got a bluesy Led Zeppelinesque groove to it, not just in composition but also in Pearcy’s lyrics and vocal delivery. Think along the lines of ‘Rock n’ Roll’ and you’ll get the general idea.

Fourth track, ‘Dead Roses’ is the first of two songs that are seemingly written about the aforementioned legal battle. Opening with screaming the word motherfucker is the first hint at the lyrical content and may well be aimed directly at Bobby Blotzer. It’s a suitably heavy song with a touch of venom to it.

‘Lollipop’ has an interesting subject matter, sex! It’s got a catchy riff to it and a nice solo again and could almost be an 80’s hair metal throwback if they bring out a video in the same style......

Next up is ‘Hit Me With A Bullet’, a hard rock old school style Ratt tune with all the elements that fans of that era will relate to and enjoy with it mid to fast tempo.

‘Rain’ has another mid tempo hard rock riff and is a story of life, the challenges it brings and the message of not letting life pass you by. The keyboard  middle section followed by a hard riff and orchestration almost acts as a musical metaphor for life as a whole.

Track eight ‘You Want Too Much’ has a great driving riff and could possibly be the second dig at the legal process over the ownership of the name Ratt. The solid rhythm section perfectly fits the riff which is quite heavy in places.

‘What Do You Think’ is another blues style song, again with a hint of Led Zeppelin thrown in. It’s a song with subtle tempo changes that works really well.

Track 10 ‘Jamie’ is a song with great hooks between the riffs and choruses and an up tempo beat that is hard to stop your head nodding to. Featuring possibly the best solo on the album as well it’s one of the stronger tracks on the album.

If the next song ‘I Can’t Take It’ reminds you of early Ratt then that’s probably because it was mixed and mastered by Beau Hill, the man behind Ratt’s first four albums. A lively song that’s a bit more mainstream and with softer isolated guitar parts similar to what Van Halen used to do. Another good tune.

‘Passion Infinity’ is a faster paced song with a nice bass intro and some melodic parts to it with good lead and background vocals. It’s a song that seems to be about mind control with a quite frantic solo and very strong drum and bass parts.

The album ends with the semi power ballad ‘Summers End’, a song about memories, loss and missing someone. It’s not quite the power ballad it could be and maybe would be better served elsewhere on the album rather than the final song. That being said it’s not a bad song, quite dramatic in parts but it just doesn’t quite the album the finish it deserves.

Overall ‘Smash’ is an album diverse enough that Pearcy can’t be accused of cashing in on the Ratt name but with just enough throwback to the earlier days to keep fans of the original band happy. It’s well written, mixed and has great performances from all the band members.

Very solid and very worth while adding to your collection.

Review by Andy Gillen

Stephen Pearcy – vocals

Erik Ferentinos – rhythm, lead guitars, bgv and co writer.

Greg D’Angelo (White Lion) – drums

Matt Thorne (Ratt, Rough Cutt) – bass

Chris Hager (Ratt, Rough Cutt) – guitar