Horrible Earth are back with their latest release, “Weakened by Civilization“, and the Boston-based deathgrind outfit show no signs of slowing down their brutal assault on the senses. Released through the ever-reliable Horror Pain Gore Death Productions, this 17-track album is a reminder of the band’s vision of cut throat savagery and vicious grindcore intensity.
The albums opener “Worth more Dead” starts off with slow, brooding rung out chords reminiscent of Assuck before breaking into a tremolo picked riff accompanied by a blastbeat. The vocals are an interesting intermediary between extreme metal and traditional grind or hardcore, sounding like a more extreme metal tinged Chris Dodge. In true grindcore fashion, this song (along with the rest of the album) is almost over before you can finish your second or third beer since almost every song is 30 seconds to a minute and a half long.
The album rages on with a relentless onslaught of start-stop speedpicked riffs and brain melting blast beats that give off a bit of a Brutal Truth vibe. Although this is a grindcore album I think that this band truly shines in their use of groove riffs such as the beginning of “Extinction Through Violence”, “Brainworms” and the identical riffs in the intro and title track “Weakened by Civilization” which bookend this release and tie everything together very nicely. “Jazz Odyssey” starts with about 30 seconds of funky drums and clean guitar that sounds like Jimi Hendrix before blasting into furious grindcore for maybe another 20 seconds. I found this track to be a little silly for my liking and thought the album would be better off without it.
Lyrically the band touches on familiar themes of the genre such as inequality, environmental destruction and human rights violations. The production is very clear and punchy, sounding more like a modern metal type production than a basement jamspace recording typical of a lot of grind acts.
Overall, this album is a certified Boston grindcore rager. The production sounds heavy and the music is fast and filthy. I wouldn’t expect any less from an outfit hailing from the area of greats such as Siege, Dropdead and Disrupt. Fans of Assuck, Brutal truth or Siege should check it out.
Interview with Becky Baldwin
Becky Baldwin is a dynamic bassist with impeccable style who is noted for her unique high-energy and dynamic performances. A role model and an educator in the industry, she has toured countries and established a very loyal fan base for her craft. Ladies and gentlemen, Becky Baldwin…
Georgina: If you did not become a musician, what would you be doing right now?
Becky: I would have liked to work with animals, either as a vet or in a rescue shelter.
Who got you into playing the bass guitar?
I just liked the music and wanted to play something. Bass was sort of accidental, deciding to play it after my school friends already had started playing guitars. I wanted to be a part of the music thing, but it felt wrong to do the exact same thing as them. So bass made sense!
What is your favorite song to perform onstage?
My favorite Fury’s current set is ‘Road Warrior’. Lots of variety in that bassline!
What sets your bass technique apart? What is unique about your playing?
I suppose playing with fingers is somewhat unique in the metal genre these days. Most heavy styles are played with a pick, but I prefer a hard-finger style, similar to Cliff Burton and John Entwistle. I think my writing of bass parts is more unique than my playing style though – I like to incorporate some different styles into my lines like many of my favorite bassists.
What do you do to prepare before a performance?
Just before going on stage, I aim to stretch my body (particularly my neck and shoulders, which get a battering!) I like to drink cider (sugar for energy and a little alcohol to smooth out the anticipation), and I try to warm up my fingers and voice and jump around a little – if I don’t feel too silly!
When did you first get interested in music?
I have felt deeply connected with music for as long as I can remember. My parents have complained of times when I was young, I would hear a particular song and completely disengage from reality. We could be out shopping and I would just want to sit on the floor in the aisle and listen. When most kids were watching Disney on VHS, I was wearing out the music video collections we had. Mostly Michael Jackson’s ‘History’ and ABBA Gold.
Can you tell us about some awards you have received?
In 2017 I won TBFM’s ‘Best Bassist’ award. That was pretty cool!
Do you listen to or play other genres outside of the ones you currently play in?
I like to play funk and blues, but I’ll listen to most contemporary music really. I’m really into musical theatre and all the styles that can be mixed into there.
What artists would you like to collaborate with in the future?
If I can pick ANYONE? I suppose it would be Devin Townsend, Jack Black… People who have influenced me for a long time and are still really kicking ass.
Who were your major influences?
Cliff Burton (Metallica), Geezer Butler (Black Sabbath), Lemmy (Motorhead/Hawkwind), John Entwistle (The Who), Steve Harris (Iron Maiden), Chris Squire (Yes)
As an educator of music, how do you set up an exciting learning environment for your students (online or off)?
I feel like it’s all to do with showing how the learning is relevant, and especially relevant to the aspects of music that they love. Finding the right songs that the student loves to play, and pulling out the lesson from in there, is what I aim for!
How do you handle traveling and being away from home for a long time?
I keep in touch with friends as much as I can, though it is hard to have a normal conversation. But my friends don’t seem to mind when I need to dump a lot of deep thoughts on them and any hour of the day. I’m very lucky for that!
Can you tell us about your most recent collaboration with other musicians?
Recently I released a collaboration cover of ‘Bring Me To Life’ by Evanescence. This was to mark 20 years of their ‘Fallen’ album. I had worked with vocalist Angel Wolfblack and drummer Panos Geo before on an old band ‘Triaxis’, as well as some other online covers. They are both incredible!
If you could have your fans remember three things about you, what would those three things be?
1. Plays a mean bass. 2. Great music taste and knowledge 3. May appear aloof but actually just overthinking 24/7
What’s your favorite song in your discography?
A National Acrobat – Black Sabbath
Can you tell us about your endorsements?
I use D’Addario strings (NYXL gauge 45-105), Darkglass electronics for pedals and amplification, my pickguards are made by Alperious Pickguards. I also use Fusion cases and a Nemphasis power supply. Those are the main ones!
You have been credited as a positive role model for younger musicians getting into the field. How does that make you feel?
Those kinds of comments really make my day. Sometimes I struggle a lot with self-esteem, and I feel frustrated by the music industry. But knowing that I have encouraged someone into something positive, makes it feel like I have achieved something. As brutal as the music industry is, music has also been my savior many times, and I hope I can help people to keep finding all the good it can bring, and smooth out some of that brutality somehow!
Your fans love your classic dress style and image. Where do you get your fashion inspiration?
I’m not really sure! I just like the way some things look and want to try them out. I guess I have borrowed from 80’s metal and punk bands, both men and women, to gradually put together a wardrobe that feels like me!
You were the guest bassist on the North American tour with Mercyful Fate last year. What was your most memorable experience?
Every night was a big deal for me, it was really all so crazy for me to have this amazing opportunity. I think when Dave Grohl was hanging around backstage and being so excited about chatting with King, I realized how big a deal it was that Mercyful Fate was finally back touring the USA for the first time in 23 years. A lot of people had been waiting a really long time for this!
What is next for you musically?
At the moment Fury is writing our next album, this will be the third album I have been a part of. We are still touring some weekends, but we are fitting in writing and rehearsal sessions when we can. It seems to be on track to be released in 2024!
Is there a personal message you would like to give to your fans who are reading this right now?
Yes, remember to cherish and value your time alive, do the things you enjoy, and be with your favorite people. Being genuine to yourself is the greatest legacy to leave!
Lastly, I always end my interviews with a *comic relief question*. If you got to choose a song that would play every time you entered a room, what song would you pick, and why?
I would want to pick something that instantly makes people wanna sing, dance or even smile. Maybe ‘Groove Is In The Heart’ by Deee-Lite… Great bassline!
**Photos used by permission of Becky **Interview by Georgina Strilakos
Album Review: NEGATIVE PRAYER
Self-Titled [E.P.]
Review Score: 8.0
Reviewed By: Johnny Ibay
Negative Prayer‘s self-titled EP is a sonic blitzkrieg of death tinged d-beat that pummels the senses and leaves the listener reeling. Guitarist/vocalist Kyle House (Decrepisy, ex-Acephalix, ex-Poison Idea, ex-Vastum) and drummer Charles Koryn (Chthonic Deity, Decrepisy, Funebrarum, VoidCeremony), are both veterans of the extreme metal scene and have crafted an unrelenting and ferocious assault on the status quo.
The EP’s opening track ‘Morbid’ sets the tone with House’s guttural vocals and downtuned d-beat/mosh riffs, combined with Koryn’s thunderous drumming to create a dark and aggressive vibe reminiscent of a straight ahead punk version of Machetazo. The lyrics present a bleak and nihilistic worldview, suggesting that life is a never-ending cycle of struggle and hardship, and that there is no greater purpose to existence beyond enduring pain and ultimately dying alone.
The remaining tracks continue in a similar vein, with each one delivering a punishing dose of d-beat/crust combined with lyrical themes of a stark existence and systemic oppression that’s as intense as it is cathartic. House’s guitar work is a study in d-beat-meets-death metal, a style that has been growing in popularity over the past several years and is displayed with exceeding proficiency on this release. The production quality is exactly what I desire in this type of music; clear enough to be discernable but still dirty enough to sound like it crawled out of a sewer.
Negative Prayer‘s self-titled EP is an intense blast of downtuned d-beat thrash and circle pit inducing breakdowns that would be enjoyed by fans of Driller Killer, Wolfpack or Acephalix. With this release, House and Koryn have cemented their status as two of the most uncompromising and talented musicians in the genre. I look forward to more releases and a potential full length from these guys.
Album Review: FROZEN CROWN
Call of the North
Review Score: 8.5
Reviewed by Blake Mossey
Frozen Crown is a power metal band hailing from Italy. This is the bands 4th album in just 6 years. When covid hit it caused 3 members to decide to quit the band. But this is the 2nd album with the current line up. Power metal meets classic metal with some symphonic moments.
For me this is the first time I have listened to Frozen Crown and I am not one to listen to much power metal these days but I was totally taken aback when I first put this on. Faster and heavier then I was expecting. With the powerful female vocals of Giada “Jade” Etro it really reminds me of Canadian Power Metal outfit Unleash The Archers. The guitar work of Federico Mondelli (founder) and Fabiola “Sheena” Bellomo are full of speedy riffs and leads and solos that match anything else I have heard in the power metal genre. Bassist Francesco Zof and drummer Niso Tomasini along with Fabiola are the 3 newest members joining in 2021.
The album comes in just under a hour. Opening title track CALL OF THE NORTH is a great opener and is a great introduction to the band if your new like me. The song slows down to crawl before ripping into the solo section. FIRE IN THE SKY shows the melodic but still speedy side with some Maidenish Oh Oh’s thrown in. BLACK HEART if the heaviest track and my personal favourite with Giada’s powerful soaring vocals and the catchy melodic chorus. VICTORIOUS gives me the feeling of some neo classical leads reminding me a little of Yngwie. 5th track IN A MOMENT features the most male vocals on the album from Federico who I would say has a great voice for slower parts. On my first few listens the next 2 tracks LEGION and UNTIL THE END didn’t stand out to me and I could of did without them. BUT after a few more listens doing a more deep dive into the songs they are growing on me. Especially LEGION as now its one of my favourites. Another favourite track is NOW OR NEVER just another showcase of the their melodic but still very speed power metal side. ONE FOR ALL is definitely the song designed for sing alongs in concert. Starts out slow and you think your going to get your first full on ballad but they kick it into a crunchy power metal anthem with a little Maidenesque gallop and I can see the crowd singing along to the “All for one, One for all, we stand fiery in the dark” Closing out the album with the longest track FAR AWAY at 7 minutes and another one of my favourite tracks and a great closer.
For fans of as previously mentioned Unleash The Archers, Maiden, Helloween. The best power metal band I have come across in a long time.
They are currently on tour in Europe playing with Nanowar of Steel.
Many know the band Skid Row from their rough and raw vocals or their Earth shattering guitar solos, but going into this show, I knew not to compare it to a show you would have seen them perform in 1991. Don’t get me wrong, the screeching vocals were still present, but nobody could ever overshadow Sebastian Bach; although, it is nice to hear the band still playing the classic hits that they wrote the music for all those years ago. Not many rock groups from that time still have what it takes to put out a full length record and tour with it, so applause is definitely in order! The members may not be jumping around, running, and twirling on stage, but they know how to put on a hell of a show just like they did in ‘91.
Rachel BolanScotti HillRob HammersmithDave “The Snake” SaboErik GrönwallRachel Bolan & Scotti HillScotti HillErik GrönwallRob Hammersmith & Rachel Bolan
Let’s start with my VIP experience. I get there by noon for the early as heck soundcheck, refuse to wait in the freezing weather, and have all my VIP goodies in hand by 12:30. The vomit-inducing anxiety leading up to seeing those 5 men, who’re old enough to be my father, on stage in their street clothes to play 2 songs, have us all turn around for a group photo, and the shortest mingling session you have ever seen was all worth it. Meeting all but my favorite member was still worth every penny spent as the members I did have the joy of meeting were more than happy to see the 20 of us VIP folks.
The time leading up to doors opening was seriously bone rattling. The exhilaration running through my veins was unspeakable, but I never let that change my demeanor as the evening went on. I secure my barricade spot, make nice with the patrons around me, and even see some familiar faces from previous internet connections! The opening acts, No Resolve and Buckcherry, warm the crowd like no other show I’ve attended in the past. The fans were feeling the music and the genuine reactions of the concert-goers is something no artist can forget, even if it is in a smaller venue! Before we knew it, the lights went down for Skid Row.
Being able to have the opportunity to capture one of your favorite bands in a riveting moment in time is out of this world. You can see the youth flaming in the members’ eyes as they get a chance to look into the crowd and see their trusty fans living in the moment. Even if the new album isn’t your jam and you prefer to stick to the old gold, you’re in luck because that’s mostly what they’re serving up! If you’re a Skid fan, take a weekend off to catch these boys perform their hearts and souls for just one evening, you’re in store for something monumental!
Rachel BolanErik GrönwallRachel BolanRachel BolanDave “The Snake” Sabo & Erik Grönwall
