Tag: heavymetal

Album Review: DEVILDRIVER

Dealing With Demons Volume II

Review Score: 8

Reviewed by: Jim Harrison

Groove metal kings , DevilDriver have returned releasing their much  anticipated second instalment of their Dealing With Demons saga with part II . This is their tenth full length album spanning an impressive career of over two decades. 

DWDII  continues where they left off in part I and is a much heavier album of the two . This album not only captures their signature groove metal vibe that they are known for but also incorporates thrash, hints of black/ death metal and has a definite punk influence sprinkled throughout it. Vocalist Dez Fafara’s  trademark voice is in top form and he is ferocious, not letting up, grabbing a hold of you right through to the last track. 

The opening track “ I have No Pity “ has that groove metal sound, very catchy and gets you started with a strong first track. This leads into “ Mantra”, which leads into a more darker sound, great digs and thundering kick drums. Track three “ Nothing Lasts Forever” gets you to think the pace is slowing only to  burst into some massive thrash riffs making it one of the heavier track on the album. The starting dual guitar riffs on “Summoning “ sends this track into a heavy groove that Dez really punches the vocals on , classic DeviDriver. “ Through The Depths” starts with a cool acoustic piece and than rips into heavy thrash leading into the next track “ Bloodbath” which is my favourite track on the album and is  a headbangers dream with those killer hooks and pounding drums, I can see this becoming a live show staple to their set list. “ It’s A Hard Truth” flows as the seventh track not letting up the vocals assault and leads into the track “ If Blood is Life” where Dez Fafara again showcases his strong vocals . This track again slows things down slightly than attacks with a vengeance, this is another track that would be a great addition to their live show.  The last track “ This Relationship is Broken “ ends the album on a high with another heavy track with the chorus repeating NO EASY WAY OUT.

This album is pure evidence that metal is alive and well in 2023 and not only will long time fans embrace this album but  this would also be a great introduction to their catalog for new fans. 

At just over 36 minutes long with nine tracks   The musicianship and vocals are fantastic and keeps the listener wanting more with the “ tweaking” of their groove metal formula and adding so many more metal elements really showcasing DevilDriver’s maturity and relevance. 

Dez Fafara- Vocals
Mike Spreitzer- Guitar 
John Miller- Bass
Alex Lee- Guitar 
Davier Perez- Drums 

ALBUM REVIEW: RAY ALDER

II

Review Score: 8.5

Reviewed by: Billy Klare

The second solo album from Ray Alder titled “II” will be released June 9th, 2023 via InsideOutMusic. Ray is best known for his vocal duties in Fates Warning dating back to the “No Exit” album released in 1988. More recently, Ray released his first solo album titled “What The Water Wants” in 2019 receiving critical acclaim.   

Ray Alder is one of Metal’s best and most versatile vocalists in my opinion. His earlier Fates Warning performances proved he could hit all the soaring high notes and stand his ground with the best singers in the Heavy Metal genre. On more recent releases, Ray’s vocals are more refined, rich and beautifully expressive which definitely applies to “II”. Ray continues to work with the same supporting musicians on his second solo record including Mike Abdow & Tony Hernando on guitars (including Bass) and Craig Anderson on drums. Similar to the first solo release, Mike and Tony co-wrote with Ray.     

The album instantly clicked with me thanks to the memorable song writing keeping me on the edge of my seat with all the interesting twists and turns. All the song choruses are incredibly melodic and addictive, perfect for Ray’s current vocal approach. Guitar players Mike and Tony are equally comfortable shredding in the prog-inspired instrumental sections as they are with more subdued melodic soloing in line with Ray’s emotional vocal delivery. Craig’s drumming is both interesting and intricate helping to keep the listener fully engaged.  

There’s no weak tracks on the album but certain songs are particularly appealing to me including “My Oblivion”, “Hands Of Time”, “Silence The Enemy” and the brilliant album closer “Changes”. These songs are generally longer with varied pacing allowing Mike, Tony and Craig the opportunity to shine from an instrumental perspective. The contrast between the melodic vocals, crunching guitars and prog-like instrumental solo performances is incredibly memorable.      

From a production standpoint, the album sounds fantastic. Ray’s vocals, guitars and drums are all placed perfectly in the mix. Although this is Ray Alder’s solo album, he doesn’t dominate the mix. Its clear the production decisions were based on what’s best for each song, not about egos. I can’t wait to get my hands on a vinyl copy and enjoy on my home system.   

Bottom line, “II” is an outstanding mature progressive heavy metal album with stellar musicianship and smart song writing. The songs continue to reveal themselves with each additional listen. Ray Alder & current Fates Warning fans will surely enjoy this album but the music would also appeal to a broader audience including prog-rock and hard rock fans. Highly recommended and deserving of an 8.5 / 10 rating.  

Track Listing 

  1. This Hollow Shell
  2. My Oblivion 
  3. Hands of Time
  4. Waiting For Some Sun
  5. Silence The Enemy 
  6. Keep Wandering
  7. Those Words I Bled
  8. Passengers 
  9. Changes

Lineup:

Ray Alder – Vocals

Mike Abdow – Guitar / Bass

Tony Hernando – Guitar / Bass

Craig Anderson – Drums  

Album Review: AVATAR

Dance Devil Dance

Review Score: 10

Reviewed by: Georgina Strilakos

Avatar’s ninth studio album, “Dance Devil Dance,” is finally here and it does not disappoint! This album is an exciting mix of different genres, with 11 new songs that showcase the band’s versatility. From melodic death to power metal, metal-core, groove, country, and even nu-metal shades, Avatar explores all possible avenues to create a truly captivating sound. Each member of the band brings their unique skill set to the table, allowing their musicianship to shine through in every song. They are not afraid to take risks and try new things, which is what sets them apart from other bands in the genre. Their open-minded attitude and willingness to experiment have allowed them to create a sound that is truly their own on “Dance Devil Dance.”

The album is very vivid, with a sound that is in sync with the visual aesthetics of the group. The songs are intense and crazy, yet there are also moments of introspection and calmness. Avatar has managed to overcome many of the clichés of the heavy music scene by creating an album that’s unapologetically diverse. Many consider “Dance Devil Dance” an excellent new work and one of the band’s best records in recent years. It is undoubtedly a great follow-up to their 2020 release “Hunter Gatherer,” which also received great feedback. Overall, this highly anticipated studio work offers a very kaleidoscopic and unexpected sound that is truly captivating. This album clearly depicts Avatar as a group of talented musicians who have a deep appreciation for metal in all its shapes, and are constantly pushing themselves to new heights. Watch out for their 2023  US Tour and be sure not to miss them live!

https://avatarmetal.com/

https://www.facebook.com/avatarmetal

https://www.instagram.com/avatarmetal/

https://twitter.com/avatarmetal

Album Review: THE 69 EYES

Death of Darkness

Review Score: 8.5

Reviewed by: Georgina Strilakos

Helsinki legends The 69 Eyes, is a band with a truly distinctive vision. The group has finally released its highly anticipated new album, “Death of Darkness.” 

Renowned for their ability to blend classic rock with the darker tones of alternative metal and goth, the group’s latest album offers ten thrilling tracks that capture the pure essence of Goth’N’Roll in a way that no other band can. Despite being on the scene for over 30 years, The 69 Eyes continue to impress with a record that draws inspiration from a variety of musical influences. From gothic glam to post-punk, there are no limits to the group’s creativity. While the album boasts some unforgettable riffs, the music is surprisingly upbeat and groovy, adding a sunny touch to the otherwise gothic vibe.

The 69 Eyes also pay tribute to the local Finnish music scene with a cover of “Gotta Rock” by Boycott – a classic that is sure to delight fans of Finnish rock music. With this album, The 69 Eyes once again prove that they are masters of their genre. Each song is a rollercoaster ride of emotions that only gets better with every listen. Fans and critics alike consider this the best album from the band in years, and it is easy to see why! The production of the album has a very modern flair to it. Still, there is room for many retro-inspired tones, including chorused guitars and crooned vocals with an old-school vibe.

http://69eyes.com/

https://www.facebook.com/the69eyes/

https://www.instagram.com/the69eyesofficial/

Album Review: ROSS THE BOSS

Legacy of Blood, Fire and Steel

Review Score: 8.0

Reviewed by Tom Elke

You know what? I’m really not sure how one is to Review a Compilation album. After all, every song on a Compilation Album is supposed to be good right from the start, right? So, what do you say? 

Well, I do have some things to say. So let’s start from the beginning.

Ross The Boss has a new album – “Legacy of Blood, Fire & Steel,” with a Release Date of April 28th, 2023. It is indeed a Compilation Album. It’s 12 total Tracks, and features 3 Songs from each of the Ross The Boss Albums, 2008’s “New Metal Leader,” 2010’s “Hailstorm,”  “By Blood Sworn” from 2018 and “Born of Fire,” which came out in 2020. I love that there are Tracks from those first 2 albums. It gives the people who aren’t overly familiar with them, a taste of what they’re about… and they’re real good songs! 

There’s a good flow in the sequence of the Songs, with mid tempo to up tempo Selections. And the Musicianship is top notch all the way through. It’s a very strong, straight-up Metal Album, with Tracks like “Blood Of Knives,” Kingdom Arise,” This Is Vengeance,” and “Maiden Of Shadows.”     

It’s always interesting to see what Songs are selected to be part of a Compilation Album, or a Best Of/Greatest Hits Album. Many times there’s acrimony & questioning of the reasoning. With “Legacy of Blood, Fire & Steel,” that is not the case. Each Track is worthy to be included. 

If you can come away from a Compilation Album thinking –“I’m ok with the Track Listing,” then it is all good. And I am ok with the Track Listing. Job well done!

Track Listing:

1 – Blood Of Knives 
2 – I Got The Right 
3 – We Will Kill 
4 – Kingdom Arise 
5 – Hailstorm 
6 – Great Gods Glorious 
7 – By Blood Sworn 
8 – This Is Vengeance 
9 – We Are The Night 
10 – Maiden Of Shadows 
11 – Born Of Fire 
12 – Denied By The Cross 

But I’ll forge ahead…

An interesting challenge to…

If you can come away from listening to Compilation Album thinking, I’m ok with the Track Listing, then all is ok… and I’m ok with the Track Listing. Well done.