LIVE REVIEW: Sweden's Void Moon surprise set earns plaudits with Baleful Creed and Terminus as awesome suupport

SOMETIMES you head along to a gig with expectations held in check; your awareness of the headlining band a little sketchy and wondering what they will deliver. And then you find yourself immersed in the sound, raising a pint and bellowing approval.

Swedish act Void Moon arrived on stage to a little scepticism in Limelight2 on Saturday 11th April, but before that two Northern Ireland acts powered through two great sets.

Southern groove and Sabbath stylings are trademarks of Baleful Creed, and they didn't disappoint. 'Illuminati' caught the mood, but show-stopper 'Autumn Leaves' has a real sense of darkness and catchiness.

The also débuted a new song in the shape of 'God's Fear', which showed the potential for new material. The only downside was that the lack of on-stage interaction among the band on stage. Develop a little more and Baleful Creed can deliver themselves to the next level.

On the other hand Terminus NI have the advantage of James Beattie's focal point on vocals. The sci-fi infused NWOBHM has a smooth, slick feel, but retain an energy and deliver for an audience that is familiar to many in attendance - even if all wonder how bassist Dave McCallum remembers which band he is playing in this week....

Concluding with 'Centaurean', a track that has many singing along - a sure sign that Terminus NI local fanbase is determined to support the band in attending and vocally.

After a strong local showing Void Moon could have been forgiven for being a little bit phased, but with Jonas and Peter looking every part the Viking invaders they clearly are intent on winning over the Belfast audience.

Despite being labelled as a doom act they have a dynamism in their playing, with loads of variety in the sound and approach.

Erika's lead work varied between under-stated excellence and sheer audacity in delivery. Marcus adds fills and thrust behind the kit to keep the whole thing moving along.

Within three songs they had won over the audience - many of whom will be looking forward to their return.

Furthermore they proved to be decent people, appreciative of those who turned out and what more can we ask for, good music, good people and another good night presented by James Loveday's Distortion Project.

Review by Jonny

Pictures by Darren McVeigh (MetalplanetBelfast)

 

 

 

ALBUM REVIEW: Swedish rockers Hardcore Superstar on top form on HCSS

SWEDEN: the birthplace of sexual Liberalism in the 60's and 70's, the home of boiled crayfish and, lest we forget, the country that gave us ABBA.

We love you, Sweden. In fact, we've loved you since '94 when a band of sleazy Swedish rockers started a little outfit known as Hardcore Superstar.

These guys are the Scandinavian champagne of the sleaze-rock scene, always one for the big occasion.

 

Their latest release, HCSS, is a self-confessed return to their roots, with the guys having recently claimed: "What we found out is that the very things that got us together in the first place are the same things that still get us going. So this is nothing less than Hardcore Superstar coming full circle by showing our fans where we come from and what we still believe in!”

The album kicks off with the provocative 'Don't Mean Shit' which undoubtedly has the makings of a very successful live track batting in the big leagues with previous gems such as 'Above the Law' , 'Last Call For Alcohol' and, of course, 'We Don't Celebrate Sundays'.

 

With powerful riffage and a jumping chorus, this song is sure to get some pints fucked in the air.

Contrasting, then, is a unique number titled 'The Cemetary'. Starting with an odd little drumbeat, this song literally screams into an infectious, upbeat punk tune. The feel of the song is very reminiscent of something the Ramones or The Misfits may have come up with, albeit a good bit heavier. The soft whispering in the song's middle provides an effective contrast to the booming backing vocals in the final chorus. Another one meant for the live audience and definitely the album's best for me.

If this record really is a return to roots for Hardcore Superstar then you can almost guarantee they were listening to a little bit of Ozzy Osbourne in the summer of '94. 'Touch the Sky' has very glaring similarities to a certain 'No More Tears'. Opening with a marriage of steady drums and distorted, raunchy bass, the Ozzy-style vocals are there for all to hear. This song really is awesome, though, and does retain an originality that pertains to classic Hardcore Superstar as well as solo Ozzy.

 

The band's range is evident throughout this album with juxtaposition of 'softer' tracks such as 'The Ocean' with your Saturday night staples like 'Party Til I'm Gone'.

This album, after the very first listen, is synonymous with everything we associate with Hardcore Superstar. Sandvik and Andreasson remain the power couple where that driving rhythm is concerned.

Zino's dirty, sleazy lead guitar licks are as prevalent as ever on this album while Berg's trademark vocals remain undiminished, yet demonstrative of a range we may not have previously been aware of.

HCSS is, without any shadow of doubt, a must-own for any Hardcore Superstar fan or, indeed, the more adventurous fan of the hard rock genre.

 

This album merely confirms what we all already knew: Sweden, and Hardcore Superstar, Rocks.

 

Review by Phil Bailie

 

ALBUM REVIEW: Nightrage fail to live up to expectations on The Puritan

When Nightrage released their first album 'Sweet Vengenge' I fell in love with the album. Then Toman Lindburg was on vocals, but since his departure, after 'Descent Into Chaos', I stopped listening to them.

Since then the band have struggled to maintain a stable lineup, none more so than in the vocal department. I was excited at the thought of the new album, but sadly was disappointed.

It's just not the same and not as good. Latest to step up to the mic (their fourth), on this their sixth album, is Ronnie Nyman and, while he does a perfectly decent job, much like the band as a whole, decent is all it is.

Gone is anything that truly made Nightrage standout and as such they have become nothing more than an average band, hard to separate from the rest of the pack.

'The Puritan' does have some moments of real quality with "When Gold Turns To Rust" being the most obvious, and in truth, there is nothing really wrong with 'The Puritan', it is a good album, but not one you would ever say was memorable.

Nightrage used to be a very good band, but with several lineup changes it's hard to maintain that quality.

'The Puritan' is a good album and worth listening to, it's just not as good as could be expected.

Review by Rebecca Livingstone

 

 

LIVE REVIEW: Hateful violence that was such fun with Stand With Heretics, Basement Torture Killings and Abaddon Incarnate

SOMETIMES the most deathly of deathly things are funny as fuck. But it only works if the performers play their odes of gore with a straight face. And, they are serious about what they are doing...

Which is a prelude to our ruminations and reflections of a night of pure unadulterated metal delivered courtesy of Grindscene Records in Belfast's Warzone Centre.

Opening up proceedings, Stand With Heretics brought the ferocity to the event with an almost unique blending of early Pantera and death metal.

While the influences of Dimebage and Alsemo were clear the more deathly elements of the likes of early Decapitated edging in amongst the groove to the edginess. Nice opening to the evening from Downpatrick's Stand With Heretics.

There is such a thing as putting on a show...yes, we know a lot of bands tend to forget that. Not so Basement Torture Killings.

From down-to-earth guys beforehand to ominous-looking serial killer looks BTK came on with attitude. Styling a Butcher's smock? Check. Evil doctor? Check. Blood soaked shirt? Check.

On one level the band could be seen as a dark comedy act with the outfits and songs such as 'Severed Head Fellatio' it could be seen that their brand of murder metal is a pastiche of silliness.

It would all fall apart if the music was shit; but it isn't. It's as precise as a scalpel cutting into flesh; from the rhythm through to searing leads and growls that would have Satan cowering in the corner in fear.

Dublin's Abaddon Incarnate rounded up the evening with a ferocious set that shows not only their experience but their ongoing development and poise.

The twin guitars work with delicious deathly attack, full of fight and filled with some delicious riffage and solos.

There was a real sense of purpose about Abaddon Incarnate. No matter the setting they seem to the rises up to any challenge. We really are now looking forward to their set at Monsters of Rot V in August.

Grindscene and Pete are to be congratulated for bringing the Pessimist Tour to Belfast - it was enjoyable in the darkest of senses!

Review by Jonny

 

ALBUM REVIEW: Heroic return by Kiske/Somerville on City of Heroes

WHEN the first Kiske/Somerville album was released in 2010, the album received critical acclaim and massive fan support.

 

Five years later 'City Of Heroes' appears, and it blows the previous album away.

 

Mat Sinner produced the first record and produced the 'City Of Heroes' album. Magnus Karlsson is back as well, with amazing songwriting and guitar skills.

The tracks are mostly Melodic Metal with some symphonic elements. Think 'Nightwish' with a

classical twist.

The songs are catchy and full of energy, especially opening track 'City Of Heroes'.

The two vocalists harmonise beautifully and work perfectly together. Amanda has an

outstanding and warm voice and she is always present on this album. Michael Kiske's voice is epic and an amazing vocal range throughout. There is way more of Amanda's voice,

especially in the chorus's.

The record is full of catchy tunes. Like the title track 'City Of Heroes'.: it is an amazing opening song; you'll find yourself singing along by the time the second chorus hits.

 

'Rising Up' is a bit heavier, but still just as good with an 80s feel, while 'Open Your Eyes' is a beautiful song and is sure to be a hit, with melodic guitar work as well as the vocals. 'Right Now' is the final track on the album, and what a song to end with. It's beautifully perfect in every way.

Production wise, the album was perfectly arranged. Keyboards are more present this time,

which gives the album a more melodic classical feel. This is one hell of an outstanding album
with great work from everyone involved.

It is an album that was well worth the wait, although hopefully we don't have to wait as long for the

next one.

Review by Rebecca Livingstone

 

Four days of fear, loathing and loudness...

FOR those tender souls who sit in their houses consumed by the mind-numbing outpourings on television...all of us should take a moment to reflect on their blighted existence, an existence cursed by brains befogged by the puss oozing from the maggot-ridden so-called entertainers' and the zombie-like pronouncements of politicians peddling their pre-election promises.


We shall pity them as we get set for four days of the best extreme metal and hard rock can throw in our willing faces and aural tracts - there's even a double-header of tribute acts included .


Now, when you think tweed and wooly jumpers the word association with death metal, even less so murder metal does not immediately spring to mind. But should you meander your way along to the Warzone Centre tonight (Thursday 9th April) you could find that word association fits.


Playing alongside headliners Abaddon Incarnate are Basement Torture Killings, a band not renowned for power ballads - unless it is a power tool being brought down on human flesh and the ballad is played at 100mph.

With song titles like 'Gore Bukkake' and 'Severed Head Fellatio' you can imagine that One Direction will not be bidding to do a cover version of a BTK track - although they could try 'Cut, Drained and Disposed'...


Abaddon Incarnate are headlining the show making it a perfect chance to check out the Dublin grindcore crew before their appearance at Monsters of Rot V.


Opening the proceedings for this Grindscene Records presentation are Stand With Heretics. Oh Daith,  who were originally scheduled to play have withdrawn, and at the time of writing no replacement had been announced. But with three bands of this caliber for a measly five of your pounds sterling what else are you going to do on a Thursday night?


If Thursday night is the unofficial start to the weekend, then Friday night is when it properly kicks off.


And in the middle of a three-band line-up is another act not averse to horror, the tribute act Alike Cooper, who will be bringing Vincent Furnier's alter ego's nightmares to Limelight1.


Opening the proceedings will be Maverick, fresh from taking on the metal at Siege of Limerick and winning!


Headliners, Hotter Than Hell will be bringing their fire and brimstone take on Kiss to the stage - a worthy way to end Friday. Tickets are £12 and available at the door for this Distortion Project presentation.


James' Distortion Project never sits still. On Saturday there will once more be a convening of the loyal at Limelight2 for Mr Loveday's regular 5-9 slot. This time Swedish doomsters Void Moon are topping the bill.


Support comes with added groove in the shape of Baleful Creed and NWOBHM stylings courtesy of Terminus (NI). Part with £6 and entry shall be permitted...


If by the end of Saturday night you feel exhausted you may get well rested for Sunday at the Voodoo.


Because you better be ready to perform the 'Crabulon'! Yes in another Distortion Project presentation Evil Scarecrow will be bringing their own flavor or metal madness to Belfast. And, we should all remember that no matter what flavor of rock/metal it is, you do not need permission to have fun.


Opening proceedings are thrashers Wardomized and dark metal from Katabolisis. To enter this feast of fun you'll have to part with £10.

ALBUM REVIEW: Falconer go back in time to refresh their self-titled début

WHEN you are not in the premier league of metal the thorny issue of re-releases can seem like an indulgence, something to be avoided. However, Swedish act Falconer have managed to avoid the trap and achieve something of a coup with the forthcoming re-issue of their first release.

Given that the band are supposedly about to quit the live circuit it is timely that they re-visit the album - and add in loads of bonuses so at least by the time they arrive in Atlanta for their allegedly final show fans will be able to claim to have the definitive collection.

Last year's release of 'Black Moon Rising' was a considerable step up for the band - and this re-release is definitely a risk.

However, having Andy LaRoque in charge of remastering breathes new life into tracks such as 'MindTraveller', Wings of Serenity' and 'Royal Galley'. Now they have the 'brightness' and separation to make them leap from the speakers..

However, the song 'Per Tyrssons Do╠êttrar I Va╠ênge' really showcases the band's merging of power metal, pagan metal and traditional folk. Excellent.

The bonus tracks are were this release comes into its own. The acoustic versions of 'Royal Galley' and 'Wings of Serenity' pop from the speakers with real vigour. Even the demo versions of 'Lord of the Blacksmiths' and 'Entering Eternity' seem justified additions.

Metal Blade are badging this as the 'Ultimate Edition' and while we argue that no band can produce an 'UItimate Edition' this is a luscious package.

The "Ultimate Edition" will be available as a double CD Digibook. Disc 2 is a bonus CD that features seven previously unreleased versions and demos of tracks from the album. The album will also be released on vinyl (Europe ONLY!) for the first time ever.

Guitarist Stefan Weinerhall explained some of the rationale:

"Re-releasing our debut album in a remastered version is a great kind of interlude while we do our last gigs as a live band", he said. "On top of that we offer our fans to finally hear the demo we did back in 1999, something very few people have heard.

"We also decided to re-record three songs from the debut in acoustic, very scaled down versions. It really got the songs to shine in a new kind of way. So about 35 minutes of unheard Falconer music in both exclusive CD and vinyl versions!"

Is it a good thing to re-twiddle and fuck about with tracks that have been firmly embedded in the psyche of Falconer fans? Ultimately they will be the ones to make up their minds, but the only we can explain our view is to say that we've been listening to the acoustic version of 'Mindtraveller' on repeat for some time now...

Falconer - Ultimate Edition is released on Metal Blade on 21st April 2015

Review by Jonny

 

 

 

Seven more bands for BLOODSTOCK’s Sophie Lancaster Stage!

Press release:

Can you feel the festival season creeping up?!  Soon, very soon it will be time to pack up your tent and your Viking drinking horn, then you and your mates will be thrashing your way to Catton Park for BLOODSTOCK 2015!  With 17 weeks to go, here’s another 7 head-banging additions to the Sophie Lancaster stage.

Crash landing into Friday’s Sophie line-up are London-based metallers, I AM I.  Fronted by ZP Theart (formerly of Dragonforce), I AM I are currently hard at work on their new album and follow up to their ‘Event Horizon’ debut.  Check out their website at http://www.iamiofficial.com/ for video updates!   Also rocking up the bill are HANG THE BASTARD, the stoner groove road dogs who recently released second album, ‘Sex In the Seventh Circle’ via Century Media and opened for Corrosion of Conformity on their UK tour.  Check out the ‘Sex In The Seventh Circle’ video at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zvYvGo2CBxw.  British thrash stalwarts RE-ANIMATOR grab themselves a slot too, after reforming in 2013 after a 20-year break.  Wrap your ears round ‘Low Life’ from their ‘Condemned To Eternity’ album here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TTDUUHTkcyo.  Hard rock riff-monsters, FIRE RED EMPRESS also land a spot.  You can listen to their recent ‘Paint Me The Devil’ EP over at http://fireredempress.bandcamp.com/album/paint-me-the-devil-ep.  Last (for this announcement), but not least, Denmark’s HEXIS also bring their unique blend of hardcore and black metal doom to Friday’s line up.  Friday is topped out by previously announced headliners, DELAIN!

Rock n’ roll tearaways JETTBLACK will be Saturday night’s main support to Sophie stage headliners, FLESHGOD APOCALYPSE.  With their brand new album, ‘Disguises’ out this week, JETTBLACK are coming out all guns blazing with a bunch of fresh tunes!  Check out some album clips over at http://www.jettblackuk.com/.

Irish metal three-piece, DEAD LABEL also join Sunday’s bill on the Sophie stage.  Their new album, ‘Throne of Bones’ is set for release soon.  Follow their news over at https://www.facebook.com/DeadLabel.

Tickets for BLOODSTOCK 2015 are available via the 24hr ticketline at 0871 230 5584 or online at http://bloodstock.seetickets.com/event/bloodstock-2015/catton-park/809956, priced at the very reasonable £135 (plus booking fee) for a four-day Thursday through Sunday weekend ticket with camping.  VIP packages and upgrades are also available, plus pre-booked car parking pitches.  Camper van pitches are now all SOLD OUT!

All these killer bands are already announced!  Friday’s headliner TRIVIUM and special guests SABATON, Saturday’s headliner WITHIN TEMPTATION and special guests OPETH, Sunday’s headliner ROB ZOMBIE and special guests BLACK LABEL SOCIETY, plus CANNIBAL CORPSE, IHSAHN, SEPULTURA, ORANGE GOBLIN, DEATH T.A, NUCLEAR ASSAULT, 1349, NAPALM DEATH, DARK ANGEL, ARMORED SAINT, BELPHEGOR, OVERKILL, ENSIFERUM, AGALLOCH, KORPIKLAANI, PRO-PAIN, ENSLAVED, RAGING SPEEDHORN, XERATH and WOLF.  Plus over on the Sophie Lancaster stage, there’s headliners DELAIN, FLESHGOD APOCALYPSE, GODFLESH and ARNOCORPS, LAWNMOWER DETH, MORDRED, ETHEREAL, ONSLAUGHT, OAF, CONAN, PLANET OF ZEUS, GODSIZED, plus many more and, there’s even more bands to be announced in the coming weeks!

LIVE REVIEW: Sinocence launch Vol2 ep with a mighty supporting cast

WHEN you have a quality ep to lauch, what better way than to gather a superb supporting cast...thus when Sinocence launched their 'No Gods, No Masters Vol 2' they assembled some a varied and superb line-up.

There is no doubt that Vol 2 is a great release (see our review here) and in Limelight2 the assembled audience was in celebratory mood.

Opening with a complete hard rockin' blast were Gasoline Outlaws. And what a blast they proved to be - tight and terrifyingly good.

Matt and his crew have taken the hard rock template, added a liberal dose of blues, a dash of metal attitude, and a smattering of good old fashioned rock 'n' fuckin' roll attitude, then smashed it all up into a feel good sound that celebrates the very best that we can do on this small outpost on the edge of Europe.

'Outlaws' we be, rockers we also be...Can't wait for the album to be released!

Guitar face level seven

From the excellence of Gasoline Outlaws the mood moved to thrashing as Donum Dei drove home their message of a world gone mad.

Thomas is growing in stature as a front man, and his melody runs with Stuart only helps emphasise the band's growth as Stuart's lead solos grow and develop.

Dean may still be the bassist who appears hyperactive, but he still nails it with Alastair's drumming.

New song apart, 'Justice Fails' and 'Gravelands' are still monstrous live.

And, why not...

Speaking of monstrous, there is a ten-legged monster in the shape of Maverick, who fresh from the Blazefest V headlining slot took the Limelight stage with a real sense of purpose.

David is comfortable leading the line as favourites came pouring off the stage. 'In Our Blood' is an ode to what we all felt in younger days - how rock and metal set us apart from the rest with our dreams and desires.

With the likes of 'Got It Bad' and 'Paint By Numbers' in their arsenal Maverick always deliver it hard in a glorious manner.

In many ways Conjuring Fate should be an anachronism - playing NWOBHM inspired tunes, tales of terror and introspection. But instead of being a throwback it is a celebratory set delivered by the band.

My guitar, your guitar

'Mirror, Mirror', 'Trust No-One' and 'Backwoods Witch' achieve the distinct bridging point between the early 80s and 2015.

Tommy has a clear sense of what a front man is, while Phil, Karl, Steve and Bodgan are more than just a backing band. They are all a unit - tied together and terrifically poised.

There is no doubt that Conjuring Fate should be destined for higher acclaim than can be offered in a mere humble online set.

But, the legions of rock and metal were gathered together to witness Sinocence.

Sure, many of us had seen then seven days before in the Empire at Blazefest, but this time they were headlining, they were showcasing their ep, and they were ripping it up as if their lives depended on it.

'No Gods, No Masters Vol 2' is a deeply personal release, but it is also a release with clear purpose in what it can deliver for the band.

Scream for me Belfast

As they mount the stage with a hard hitting version of 'Long Way Down' it was clear that Sinocence were geared up, with their contemporary metal.

We've referred to the phrase 'contemporary metal' on a number of occasions in relation to Sinocence. What we mean is that Sinocence have emerged, escpaed and evolved from a trap too many bands fall into.

They could have sounded derivative in terms of 80s thrash; they could have tried to match with the modern playlists, but instead Sinocence have carved their own path and created their own sound.

'Ascension Code' and 'Valorous' are mightily good - well balanced and well delivered.

Morro is cool and confident in his delivery, Anto's solos are better crafted than ever; and Jim and Davy roll and rock with a precision that is almost perverse in being this good.

Sinocence should be in the premier division of UK and Irish metal - only the geography of being in Northern Ireland has meant that major labels haven't been hunting them down.

Overall -  a word we usually hate to use in reviews, the launch of ' No Gods, No Masters Vol 2' was a resounding celebration of what is great in Northern Irish rock and metal.

Review by Jonny

Pictures by Darren McVeigh (MetalplanetBelfast)

Sing me a song, you're a singer

You have no idea how heavy this guitar is

Losing control, keeping control

Flying V and flying on the fretboard

Passion

Relaxed and rocking

And the next line is...

Help me out with the chorus...

Leaning back to rock out

And then there was the Seige...and Northenr Ireland lay waste to Limerick

IT was not intended that the intrepid band of brethren and sistren from Northern Ireland would be attempting to review the Siege of Limerick - the six-monthly gathering of a tribe of long-haired and loud types.

However, it is worth a line or two to congratulate the bands from Norn Iron for tearing up Dolan's, causing geological faults across the west or Ireland and tsunamis to roll across the Atlantic...

As your trusty editor managed to take the 'longer route' to Limerick we missed what is reportedly a great set from Altus.  We also learned that our colleague in reviews Mel has a road rage issue when caught behind traffic...

But when safely booked in, with our bellies filled through the excellent fare in Dolans, we ventured forth into the increasingly packed venues.

Wandering around we perchanced upon the eclectic Rather Be Alive who were entertaining, with a mixture of deathcore, funk and System of a Down...it shouldn't have worked, but it did.

Leaving that aside, we were mainly focussed on the Norn Irish contingent.

There was meant to be a timing clash between War Iron and Maverick, but owing to the main stage running a bit late we were able to enjoy the deathly rumbling and sludge of War Iron; however seeing as they had a guitar on stage it was a little unusual for regular viewers. That didn't detract from the bottom end destruction of many people's internal organs.

With guts churned into liquefied jelly we made our way to where Maverick were rapidly converting the crowd. On paper Maverick shouldn't have had a chance amidst a crowd mainly consisting of fans of the more extreme end of metal spectrum.

Did they fuck - Maverick won over the crowd with their hail and hearty rock, as infectious smiles beamed across the audience. Beside us two men wearing Carcass and Cannibal Corpse t-shirts began headbanging and throwing shapes that displayed sheer enjoyment.

'Rock 'n' Roll Lady was bellowed out by the Northern Ireland fans; 'Got It Bad' was as infectiously dangerous to the cerebellum and central nervous system; 'In Our Blood' got underneath everyone's skin in a good way; and, 'Paint by Numbers' wove patterns of light and shade across the blackened venue. God help The Poodles because Maverick are going to give them a serious run for their money when the Northern Irish rockers go on the road with them. Grins on band and crowd alike - job done!

With the representation from the province of Ulster well and truly established yet more was to come.

Astralnaut have been gradually building up their 2015 presence after two plus years of steady growth and development.

In Limerick the Armagh monsters brought their mighty sounds to life, with a set that straddled the earliest to the latest. It was as if from the mists the titans of the ancient Ulster knights had grown tall and brought the power of mysticism, gave it muscles and applied it to a musical brutality that gave birth to groove.

From the bottom end of Astralnaut to the sound of windows breaking across the entire country as Joe from Rabid Bitch of the North hit note so high that they induced a resonance wave fit to fracture even the sturdiest glass. It is as well that most pints were being served in plastic containers...

Undoubtedly even Joe, Chris and Gerry could not have expected the response from the crowd as mini-mosh pits emerged and stage diving got to such an extent that a queue formed to be the latest to launch themselves from the stage.

The contrast of Joe's Rickenbacker bass, Gerry's riffage and soloing alongside Chris pounding the kit into submission with the high-pitched singing brought a sheer joy to all in attendance.

'Us Against Them' and '...1999' were just two of the many excellent songs as Rabid Bitch proved that 'Defending Two Castles' is not only possible, but inevitable when this trio take to the stage.

From the NWOBHM inspired of RBOTN to hardcore....

It's Belfast hardcore...do
you have a problem with
that?

By Any Means are not only experienced, but still have the joy of taking up musical arms writ large upon their attitude.

Quickly they had madness spreading across the audience. Keep Paul on stage?  Not likely. Keep Paul from riffing out? Impossible. Chris and Gavin from laying down a rhythm that roared? As per usual...

But, there is nothing 'as per usual' about any By Any Means set. The passion of the band spreads to all present. 'Built on Respect'. Too fucking right!

From there as Panic Cell once sang "Black Juice down, it's gettin' a little bit hazy; I look at you and I don't know what you're saying". Well we weren't there to review the Siege...

Overoth were as always excellent by all accounts, and Alunah brought their Brummie take on contemporary metal with spirit and verve.

Siege of Limerick was a delight, heralding the bridge between the Celtic seasons of Cutios and Giamonios. [Yeah - drink may have been taken, but we still do our research.]

The whole thing can be summed up in a words from our colleague in metal, Donal: "Mighty!"

Lost in the moment

Have drums, will hit 'em

Guitar wank face level eight achieved

The roar and the riff

Paul proves he can out-pose Zakk Wylde...

Apparently people enjoyed themselves at Siege...

How to hit the high notes, Joe explains to eager listeners that you need
to have really, really tight jeans to sing the chorus of ...1999.

Weekend is coming....Easter weekend with all the weirdness of our licensing laws...

RIGHT -  it's another weekend of gig clashes as Saturday shapes up with four - yes four - gigs. Deciding on which performance to attend, well that's up to you...

Most important gig to attend is Heat 4 of Metal 2 The Masses. That's the latest edition, presented by The Distortion Project, that sees band battle for a prestigious place at Bloodstock.

With doors opening at 5pm (and, for only £5 to get in) this is set to be a really tight competition. Sinocence, Conjuring Fate, Scimitar and By Conquest Or Consent -  four bands, total quality acts with only two set to proceed to the semi-finals.

Tough, tough decisions for all those who have to vote. And, if you're not there, you can't vote! Never mind the Westminster election debates (for now) this is when your vote can really count.

After you step outside the doors of the Limelight2 you have to assess where to go next...and it's a wide choice.

You can trek to Ahoghill where titans of hard rock Danny Vaughn and Dan Reed appear together with a Snake Oil experience at the Diamond Rock Club. [And if you walk out of the door of the Limelight at 9pm we can advise that at Belfast Central train station the 9:20 train will have you in Ballymena by 10pm and a short taxi ride to the Diamond...]

If hard rock is your 'thang' and the Diamond isn't on your tour plans then former Rainbow singer, Joe Lynn Turner is occupying the Voodoo: he may have once have sang 'Can't Happen Here', but apparently it can happen in Belfast...
Now, you may be expecting to enjoy the pints of hard rock and metal until you order your last drink at 1am...well you'd be wrong. Because you'll be ordering that last sup at midnight. It's Easter after all. The first full moon after the vernal equinox...

It's controversial to the say the least, but you can read about some of the controversy about the licensing laws blogger 'Belfast Barman' sums it up here with the post 'Easter is Easter: Christianity Ruins It For Everyone' It's good reading!

Now, if you were not enamoured by the likes of 'I Surrender' or 'Can't Happen Here' played acoustically then things will be a little bit heavier at The Bar With No Name on Belfast's Dublin Road.

Death Of A Salesman, Scimitar, Figure Head and By Conquest or Consent will be shaking up any scenesters who happen to wandering by The Bar With No Name.

Now, if you recover from all that then Limerick is re-enacting an historical event from the 17th Century - the Siege of Limerick.

Leave aside the history of the Jacobite and Williamite wars, this is more like the pre-history of the island than what passes for history nowadays.

Yeah, Alunah are playing but this is a northern invasion [screw your politics this a metal show!]

War Iron, Rabid Bitch of the North, Astralnaut, Altus, By Any Means, Overoth and Maverick are among the many, many bands playing on Easter Sunday in Limerick.

Shall we be heading down - hell yeah. Reviews on the recent Sinocence/Maverick/Conjuring Fate etc gig will follow: after all you wouldn't expect us to say a word given that Belfastmetalheadsreunited is amongst the judges...

ALBUM REVIEW: Nightwish excel on Endless Forms Most Beautiful...an early contender for album of the year

FOUR years after their highly acclaimed album 'Imaginaerum',Suomi symphonic metal heroes Nightwish return with their eighth studio album, and the first to feature current vocalist Floor Jansen - 'Endless Forms Most Beautiful'.

The title is taken from a quote in Darwin's 'On the Origin of the Species' and sets the theme for the album which is an exploration of life, evolution, science and the origins of Earth and Mankind.

Opening with 'Shudder Before the Beautiful' (and an opening narration from evolutionary biologist and author Richard Dawkins) Nightwish are on top form. Everthing is there, the orchestration, choir, frantic keyboards and fantastic guitar riffs; and, it's a great scene setter for what's to come.

'Weak Fantasy' is the metal side of Nightwish and Jansen shows her vocal quality which can be aggressive and sensitive in equal measure. Dealing with dark subject matter including being governed by the dead this is the first song Marco shares vocal duties on. The guitar work is heavy and menacing as befits the song.

Just when you think this is all out assault on your eardrums they change pace with the catchy melodic 'Elan' which has Nightwish's now familiar Celtic vibe to it featuring low whistles but also with a great riff throughout and a nice acoustic finish.

This is followed by 'Yours Is An Empty Hope', a return to the darker more metal sound with a nasty riff to start and featuring heavy guitar work throughout. Dealing with pain and truth it has vocals by both Floor and Marco which are more angry and aggressive in parts and suit the song perfectly.

'Our Decades In The Sun' is a love song but differing from the usual as it deals with the love for parents. A moving song which apparently had the band shedding tears in recording as Floors emotional rendering absolutely nails the essence of it! Great guitar licks and a haunting choir vocal only serve to enhance the emotion.

Next up is 'My Walden', another song with a Celtic vibe with showcases the other new permanent member of Nightwish, Troy Donockley, who displays an ability to play an array of musical instruments including, on this, the uilleann pipes and bodhran. A soft vocal delivery by Floor during the verse before a massive chorus gives this song a nice up tempo feel.

Title track 'Endless Forms Most Beautiful' starts like the soundtrack from a movie chase scene before one of the nastiest riffs ever kicks in. It then develops into a song full of operatic vocals, orchestral keyboards and crunching guitar work from Emppu. A highlight of the album so far.

The 'Edema Ruh' were a nomadic tribe of entertainers, storytellers,actors and musicians fabled in 'The Kingkiller Chronicle' written by fantasy author Patrick Rothfuss and the song is a melodic and beautiful telling of that story. Featuring a more classical metal riff and bass line with a chorus impossible not to sing along to and a bit more Celtic influence to keep it moving nicely.

'Alpenglow' is a dramatic, catchy tune. It's another love song with a varied vocal performance from soft to gritty to operatic combined with melodic guitar work. A dramatic key change at about four minutes lifts Floor's vocals a notch and helps the song build to an atmospheric climax.

The penultimate track 'The Eyes of Sharbat Gula' is an instrumental and is Tuomas Holopainen's attempt to convey the feelings he had on first seeing the photograph 'Afghan Girl', an award winning photo that graced the cover of National Geographic in 1985.

A delicate and spiritual folk song that is piano driven to start with a hypnotic drum beat, pipes and orchestration which includes a childrens choir for vocal effect. A wond composition that takes you right to the refugee camp where Sharbat was found.

Finally, the last track, 'The Greatest Show on Earth'

This song probably deserves a review all on its own as it clocks in at 23:58 mins!

Divided into five parts it has as its basis the book of the same name written by the aforementioned Dawkins and charts his theory on life and evolution by natural selection.

It is everything that Nightwish are in one song, atmospheric, symphonic and aggressive in equal measure; with sweeping melodies and some great guitar riffs. It starts with a simple piano and cello intro leading us to the 'Big Bang' theory. From there it takes us on a dramatic journey through time culminating in another narrative from Dawkins quoting Darwin's Origin of the Species.

The word Ethos was used by the Greeks to refer to the power of music to influence its hearers' emotions,behaviours and morals. Nightwish embody that word totally.

An unbelievably good album that could quite simply be described as EPIC!





Review by Andy Gillen




 

ALBUM REVIEW: Hard rock with an edge from Norway's Spitfire on Fuel to Burn release

WHAT is it with Norway? As well as its reputation for producing Black Metal par excellence they produce consistently great hard rock bands.

Further evidence of this comes from Spitfire who have just released their latest album 'Fuel to Burn', an unpretentious platter of heads down rock and riffage.

This is unadulterated rockin' as smooth as silk bed sheets and as spiky as a cactus back massage. From the opener title track, through to closer 'Down' this is an enjoyable package: put your brain in neutral and wallow in this with beer in hand.

At times some of the lyrics are cringeworthy, and it is appropriate to say there is nothing 'new' on this release, but what Spitfire have done is to pull all the classic hard rock elements together and let loose eight tracks of sheer rock joy.

'Damned if You Do' has an 80's mid-tempo vibe, 'Nightmare' has a roll and delicious elements.

Beffen, Iggy, Bob and Nicky have captured the elusive element that enjoins 1970's rock with the sleaze and lust of LA in the 80s. 'Gimme Some' could sit comfortably in either decade, but is resoundingly a 21st Century slab of rock, with tasty guitar elements.

However, the outstanding track is 'I'. Real passion has been injected into this. It broods as it opens, reveals an inner heart and develops into a stormer, with a groove that will see grunge bands hang their heads in shame that they never achieved this level of angst driven anger.

While closer 'Down' can sit comfortably in any hard rock afficianado's playlist the contrast is the ever-so-slightly contrived 'Dogfight', which may work as a live track, but spills forth too many clichés.

Taken in the round Spitfire have, like the aeroplane they are named after, produced a good, if flawed release. The Spitfire didn't win the Battle of Britain (Hawker Hurricanes shot down more German planes than the Supermarine Spitfire) but like their namesake these Norwegian rockers deliver what is expected if classic hard rock...and more.

Review by Jonny