Δευτέρα 18 Μαρτίου 2024

REVIEW: HAMMERFALL, Built To Last (2016)

 


HAMMERFALL, Built To Last (2016)


Napalm Records


Το δέκα το καλό;


Όχι σαν απόδοση, απλά είναι το 10ο των Σουηδών epic/power metal θεουληδων. Προς Θεού (της metal) δεν είναι το καλύτερο τους. Είναι πάντως ένα δυνατό, μία απ' τα ίδια, σαν τα περισσότερα τους μετά το Renegade του 2000 (το τρίτο τους άλμπουμ). Οι πέντε μάστορες υπό την ηγεσία των Joacim Cans κι Oscar Dronjak, σε δέκα από ΟΚ ως έξοχα κομμάτια. Που ' ναι η εποχή του 1997 που ο  φίλος Αντωνης μου έγραφε την κασέτα με το πρώτο τους που είχε βγει τότε, Glory to the Brave!... Οι Hammerfall έχουν σταθερή απόδοση, τόσο που πλέον είναι...μια απ' τα ίδια όπως είπα πιο πάνω. Έστω, αξίζουν της προσοχής μας.


English Text:



The tenth album, huh?


Not exactly their magnum opus, just another addition to the discography of the Swedish epic/power metal titans. For the love of metal gods, it falls short of their best work. However, it still holds its ground, offering a solid effort akin to much of their post-2000 output since Renegade (their third album). With Joacim Cans and Oscar Dronjak at the helm, the band delivers ten tracks ranging from decent to outstanding. Ah, the nostalgia of 1997 when my friend Antonis handed me their debut cassette fresh off the presses, Glory to the Brave!... Hammerfall maintains a steady performance, almost predictably so, now becoming somewhat predictable, as mentioned earlier. Yet, they remain worthy of our attention.


Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης


Neposredna Opasnost: Verzija 2's Latest Release

 


Serbian Progressive Stoner/Groove Metal band Verzija 2 has unleashed their latest sonic offering with the release of their single "Neposredna Opasnost." Recorded at the esteemed "MARK Studios" by Miloš Marković and Tom Brechtlein, this track embodies the band's signature fusion of heavy riffs and infectious grooves. Formed in 2012 in Belgrade, Serbia, Verzija 2 comprises Aleksandra Marković on vocals and bass, Miloš Marković on guitars, and Dejan Nikolić on drums. Together, this power trio channels the essence of their city's storied past, weaving a musical tapestry of gritty intensity, thunderous rhythms, and mesmerizing vocals, creating an immersive sonic experience that resonates deeply with listeners.


Σάββατο 16 Μαρτίου 2024

PVRS Unleashes Debut Album "Solstice"

 


Belgian Atmospheric Sludge/Post-Metal maestros PVRS have stormed onto the scene with their highly anticipated debut album, "Solstice". Recorded within the hallowed halls of "NOISE FACTORY RECORDS" and meticulously mixed/mastered by the renowned Gerald Jans, this release promises an auditory journey like no other.


Formed in the crucible of creativity in 2023 by the visionary duo Jean-Pierre Mottin and Twan Landrin, PVRS wastes no time in establishing their sonic dominion. Their music, a fusion of atmospheric sludge and post-metal, transcends mere genre labels, catapulting listeners into a realm where ethereal melodies intertwine seamlessly with bone-crushing riffs.



Drawing inspiration from an eclectic array of influences including the likes of Deftones, Sleep Token, and Type O Negative, PVRS forges a sound that is uniquely theirs. Each track on "Solstice" is a testament to their artistry, weaving intricate sonic tapestries that ensnare the senses and leave an indelible mark on the listener's psyche.


Prepare to be entranced as PVRS invites you to immerse yourself in the swirling maelstrom of "Solstice". Let the music wash over you, carrying you to the furthest reaches of your imagination. This is not just an album; it's an experience—a journey into the depths of musical expression that will leave you craving more.


DRAGONFORCE Unveil New Single "Burning Heart”

 


Today marks an electrifying milestone for the trailblazing pioneers of extreme power metal, DRAGONFORCE, as they unleash their monumental new album, "Warp Speed Warriors," via Napalm Records on March 15th! To commemorate this momentous occasion, the band unveils the official music video for their latest single, "Burning Heart"! Infused with rapid drum patterns and exhilarating guitar riffs, this infectious new track is accompanied by a visually captivating music video. Guitar virtuoso Herman Li shares his excitement about "Burning Heart," describing it as another proud addition to the DragonForce repertoire, boasting their signature sound and an astonishing 10 guitar solos! After a five-year hiatus from album releases, the band is thrilled for fans to experience the sonic journey of "Warp Speed Warriors."


BILWIS' 'Hameln' Album Arriving April 05!

 


BILWIS, the atmospheric black metal sensation, is gearing up to release their highly anticipated second album titled "Hameln" on April 05! Drawing inspiration from the infamous tale of "The Pied Piper of Hamelin," Bilwis delves into the depths of darkness to craft an album that promises to captivate listeners with its haunting melodies and intense atmospheres. According to the band, the legend of the Pied Piper isn't just renowned; it's a deeply dark narrative that resonates with the essence of their music, making it a natural fit for their latest musical endeavor. Prepare to embark on a journey into the shadows with BILWIS as they unleash their sonic interpretation of this timeless tale.


REVIEW: VIVA - What the Hell Is Going On! (1981)

 


VIVA - What the Hell Is Going On! (1981)


Epic Records


Homepage


Introducing the sophomore album of German heavy metal band VIVA, released in 1981, this record embodies the quintessential sound of early Teutonic heavy metal with hard rock influences. Unlike the epic or fantasy heavy metal typically associated with its cover art, VIVA delivers a raw and powerful sound that captivates listeners with its gritty energy. Led by Marco Paganini's distinct vocals, reminiscent of Klaus Meine, the album channels the spirit of bands like Scorpions and Accept, offering a unique blend of German-accented English lyrics and burr-infused singing.


One standout track, "What Next," bears resemblances to Thin Lizzy, particularly in its refrain, while "What The Hell Is Going On" introduces a bluesy undertone to the album's repertoire. Notable contributions come from Barbara Schenker, a founding member and sister to renowned guitarists Rudolf and Michael Schenker, who adds depth with keyboards and synthesizers. Tragically, three members of the band, including Schenker and Paganini, have since passed away, leaving behind a legacy of influential music.



Highlighted by tracks like "The Bitch," "Break Out," and the aforementioned "What The Hell Is Going On" this album offers a nostalgic journey for fans of 80's German metal. Its enduring appeal lies in its authentic representation of the era's heavy metal scene, serving as a testament to the talent and creativity of VIVA. Whether you're a die-hard metal enthusiast or simply curious about the genre's roots, this release deserves a place in your playlist.


Νικόλαος Παραστατίδης


Τετάρτη 13 Μαρτίου 2024

REVIEW: BLIND GUARDIAN, Nightfall...In Middle Earth (1998)

 


BLIND GUARDIAN, Nightfall...In Middle Earth (1998)


Virgin


Πρελούδια όπως και ιντερλουδια.


Αν απομονώσει κανείς τα κομμάτια αμιγώς, είναι τα 2/3 της συνολικής διάρκειας του cd!  Έχει γραφτεί ότι είναι το καλύτερο τους, η ακμή, το ζενίθ κ.τ.λ. δεν νομίζω ότι ευσταθεί κάτι τέτοιο. Ίσως αν κάποιος το ρημιξαρε χωρίς τα εφε και τα ιντερλουδια να άξιζε περισσότερο γιατί  σαν το τελευταίο τους κλασικό άλμπουμ ναι έχει ιδιαίτερη αξία, τα συνολικά 22 tracks που το απαρτίζουν το καθιστούν μάλλον ακατάλληλο να το έχεις στο mp3 player του κινητού.... Ένα θεματικό σύνολο με βάση (τί άλλο) το Silmarilion του J.R.R. Tolkien. Η σύνθεση τους πλέον σαν πεντάδα με τον τραγουδιστή Hansi να μην παίζει από αυτό και ύστερα το μπάσο και να έχουν πλέον ξεχωριστό μπασίστα. Πιο σημαντικό είναι το γεγονός ότι είναι το τελευταίο πραγματικά συμπαγές τους (όσο το επέτρεπαν οι συνθήκες) άλμπουμ για χρόνια. Το Mirror Mirror θα μείνει απ' αυτό σχεδόν μόνιμα στο ζωντανό playlist τους από τότε ως τίς μέρες μας. Τα Into the Storm, Nightfall, Time Stands Still (At The Iron Hill), Thorn είναι κι αυτά σημεία αναφοράς.


English Text:



Preludes and interludes intertwine seamlessly. If one dissects the pieces individually, they comprise two-thirds of the CD's entirety! Some claim it to be their magnum opus, the pinnacle of their craft, yet such assertions might be overstated. Perhaps, if someone were to remix it sans the effects and interludes, it would garner greater esteem. As their swan song, it undeniably holds a unique significance, though the 22 tracks that constitute it may render it cumbersome for a mobile mp3 player. A thematic journey inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien's Silmarillion, it marks their transition into a quintet, with vocalist Hansi stepping back, and a dedicated bassist emerging. More significantly, it stands as their last truly cohesive album for years to come. "Mirror Mirror" remains a permanent fixture in their live repertoire, a testament to its enduring appeal. "Into the Storm," "Nightfall," "Time Stands Still (At The Iron Hill)," "Thorn" serve as timeless touchstones within their musical odyssey.


Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης