BESTIAL DEVASTATION
Sores, Blood & Pus
Bestial Devastation is a new band consisted of 4 young guys with a lot of passion, aggression and destructive violence. They call their music "bestial metal" and I think it's suitable, since what they play is up tempo grindcore with blastbeats and with references to bands like CANNIBAL CORPSE, AUTOPSY and CRYPTOPSY to name a few. They are newcomers, this is their first demo and they have a long way to go, but all in all I think they managed to find the path that are willing to pave. Their music is furious and aggressive as hell and I think the drummer does a great job with his concrete, stable and fast drumming. The artwork is simply disgusting but having a title like "Sores, Blood and Pus" I don't think we should expect anything different, right? The only thing that surely needs correction is the sound. The production is muddy and needs some more volume, but since this is their first demo, I think it's natural. Get in touch with the band at the following address.
CONTACT: BESTIAL DEVASTATION, C/O ALESSIO LEOCADIA, VIA A. GRAMSCI 77, 66041 ATESSA (CH), ITALY.
EMAIL: bestial_devastation666@hotmail.com
Christine Parastatidou
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PLAYTHING
Plaything
Plaything gave me a hard time and I am not embarassed to admit it! I had to listen to them again and again to start realizing their depth and the originality they try to offer us. This is true and unconventional music that should and can only be heard with an open mind. Plaything is the kind of band that has a weird and innovative sound, manages to surprise you and shock you in the beginning and little by little you grow to like them. The band has potential no doubt! They truly are capable of composing fresh and genuine music, which can be described as heavy doom metal but up to that. No other label can easily fit with them. Perhpas the word obscure can reveal a lot... Well, just to give you a clue, as I said after many listenings, I came to the conclusion that their sound has something from the BLACK SABBATH aesthetics, with a BRUCE DICKINSON's "Chemical Wedding" touch and some ANATHEMA enrichments. The voice is hoarse and special, but needs to be corrected and a bit improved. I must admit that Tryfon, the band's singer, reminded me of SYSTEM OF A DOWN's vocalist in some parts. The sound is on good levels and the artwork beautiful and original too. All in all, this is a band you should kep an eye upon and I am sure they can and will do better in the future!
EMAIL: Plaything@freemail.gr
CONTACT: TRYFON LAZOS, KYPOUPOLEWS 6, AIGALEO 12243, ATHENS
Christine Parastatidou
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MASS INFECTION
Believe the Lie
A perfect mixture of thrash with deah metal is what this quartet chose to present us. This is a 3 song demo cd and I must admit that the guys worked on professional standards achieving a great sound and presenting a release very well set in matters of artwork and layout. Their music is dark and heavy and it sounded like a mixture of SEPULTURA and DEATH. Mass Infection may come from a city far away from the music industry and centre of decisions, but they prove to us that first and most important requirement in this music is talent and inspiration. Believe me... They have them both. I am more than certain that we will hear from them pretty soon... Check them out! Their demo costs 4 € and you can order it from the address below.
CONTACT: MASS INFECTION, LYTRAS NIKOS, 87 KARAGIANNOPOYLOY STR., 32100, LIVADIA, GREECE.
EMAIL: massinfection@hotmail.com
SITE: http://www.mass-infection.tk
Christine Parastatidou
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MANDRAKE ROOTS
Crawling In Your Ear - Demo 2003
I don't know if you've thought it like this , but sometimes music seems to me to be like words. What do I mean? Simple. First of all, words and music are instruments we use to express our emotions and thoughts abd pass them onto other people and thus communicate. Secondly, I believe that most of you had the misfortune to have a chat with a person that uses many rare and strange words without telling you anything in specific. I believe that even the most complicated emotions and thoughts can be expressed. On the contrary, the most complicated ways of expression are used most of the times to hide the truth from us and mislead us. Madrake Roots belong to the first category. They don't want to show off, they just want to reach out to us many people as possible. And they really do a tremendous job with their unique and without any affectations playing, they manage to combine doom metal with the N.W.O.B.H.M. and the 70s hard rock. I also want to stand on the great vocalist that really gives life to every word he sings. Madrake Roots managed once again to enchant me with their music. A very mature work released by such young musicians! It reveals many things of the band's abilites. Personally, I don't think this release as a demo, but as a masterpiece of the underground metal scene!!! The band will send you the demo for free, but you have to contact them via: TASOS PAPANASTASIOY, TAXIARCHIAS 52, 65403, KAVALA, GREECE
EMAIL: themandrake@hotmail.com
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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KINETIC
Kinetic
Bands like this make me really proud and make me feel lucky for being in the position of listening to their songs and having the privilege of presenting them to the rest of the metallers. I-N-C-R-E-D-I-B-L-E death metal, which has references to both the melodic Swedish genre and to the American school. I don't think there is anything bad I could mention. Everything's superb! I mean they managed to combine the melodic and catchy metal riffing of the European death metal branch with a sound very close to the masters of the American genre and of course I am talking about DEATH. A band that really works on professional standards and has everything required to move on. They have passion, they give their souls to their compositions, they have atmosphere and volume. Apart from these, the production is good and I liked their artwork very much. Generally the artwork, layout and quality of the paper offer one more reason to make this mini cd a must. Need a negative? 3 songs only... But the band informed me that pretty soon they will release a full length album. I am waiting anxiously! This mini cd costs 5 € including postage, so...I suppose you know what to do...right?
CONTACT: 19-21 DIMAKOPOULOU STR., 10445 KATO PATISIA, ATHENS, GREECE.
EMAIL: kineticgr1@yahoo.gr OR kineticgr2@yahoo.gr
Christine Parastatidou
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TWILIGHT ZONE
Onirical Inheritance - Demo cd 2003
One of the healthier metal scenes in Europe without doubt is the italian one. Lately, I had the luck to listen to bands from over there that released albums filled with quality and inspiration. Twilight Zone are not an exception. they play heavy/power metal that balances between the European and the U.S. metal. Their music flows so easily that makes you want to listen to it again and again. The production of this demo is really improved in comparison to the sound of their previous one, whose sound was very poor. the singer has a great voice, but he has to improve his pronounciation a bit, although I liked it, because it brought to my mind the debut album of DOMINE. Twilight Zone is consisted of talented musicians and thy deserve your attention and support.
EMAIL: stefano@twilightmetal.com
SITE: http://www.twilightmetal.com
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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CHAPEL DESECRATOR
Wrecking Your Church
I reviewed the song "Prepare To Take Your Life", which was included in the compilation of the Atlantida Productions vol. 22, a while ago and it was one of the bands that I picked out right from the beginning. So, after listening to the whole demo cd I still think that it's a great, great band! What I like in Chapel Desecrator a lot is the fact that they managed to make me feel nostalgic. They are a true, old fashioned, speed/thrash metal band with some punkish influences thrown in and they strongly reminded me of some great German bands like SODOM and early period HELLOWEEN and of some bay area thrash metal bands. This is a demo that I enjoyed extremely, because besides the incredible and catchy music (you couldn't find better music for drinking beers and headbanging), the 2 guys behind Chapel Desecrator have an amazing sense of humour and manage through it to cauterize everything wrong going on in the world. This is the true essence of heavy metal!!! Do a favor to yourselves and check them out!!!!
CONTACT: MICHAEL ADAM, AM BRUNNEN 6, 50354 HURTH, GERMANY.
SITE: http://www.chapel-desecrator.de
EMAIL: desecratingrecords@netcologne.de
Christine Parastatidou
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HEX
Our Synthetic Soul?
This is an adorable effort. We have two men behind Hex: Bob Beach and Dan Gross. Two guys that with very few means, have created a set of nine songs that astound! I don?t know if people would appreciate that one as much as it deserves since the bands that have helped Hex to form their style are utterly underestimated, at least from the majority of fans! And what do I mean by that? ?Our Synthetic Soul?? is a blend of Psychotic Waltz and Watchtower besprinkled with some Metallica. It is hard to find such bands anymore? But don?t you think that we have a bunch of shameless copiers here. These influences show the true (sic) progressive nature of this band. Therefore, don?t you expect unedited parts of Psychotic Waltz songs put together. Hex have an amazing skill in making their own music and at the same time leaving their influences to show for us to evaluate. And my opinion is that I found them very inspired to be called any bad name! Hex have amazing riff ideas, solos that would make you tremble of excitement and a really loud and clever bass, elements that characterize all the above mentioned bands. They also use distinctive keys that bring to mind the Darkstar projects (which are also Psychotic Waltz oriented) and create a beautiful dreamy carpet for the other instruments to fly with. Of course this album is not an everlasting masterpiece. The previous lines show enthusiasm because I think that their flaws can be easily wiped out. First we have programmed drums from Dan that, although being the most carefully worked I have ever listened to, still sound fake many times and steal some of the album?s quality. But I guess it shouldn?t be impossible to find a qualified drummer for their style, and create beauty in that sector as well! Next we have the vocals. Bob sings with power, he never gets out of tune but all of this cannot hide a limited voice with a tone not very matching to the music. Now don?t get me wrong, both drums and vocals are the 100% performance of some certain standards that Hex had to use. And that leaves the best of impressions cos it shows that this band has put a lot of effort in what I hear! Just ask yourselves how many musicians give all they can give nowadays? The answer for that is few. The point is that Bob although not having the best of voices, kicks ass with his guitar work and Dan although having to fulfill the dirty job of drums programming that can never be done perfectly, kicks ass as well with his bass low frequencies! Just listen to the songs ?Enlightenment?, ?Shut It Down? (hymn!), ?A New Age? and ?Age Of Mystics? and see what Hex are capable of!
SITE: http://www.hexology.com
George "Volt" Tassis
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DISHARMONIC
Kick Over The Traces
The "Kick Over The Traces" demo takes Disharmonic many steps forward, but it also has a disadvantage for which the band is not fully responsible. First of all, you can't overlook the professional layout and work on this demo, which has a beautiful booklet
with all the lyrics included. The back cover shows the band in front of a big fire, something that brought to my mind OVERKILL's "Feel The Fire" (hail!!!). The compositions in comparison to their previous demo seem to be improved and with a lot of variety. All the songs contain thrash/ death/ grind metal elements combined with hardcore and punk influences. I can't deny that many times the band's sound reminded me of SEPULTURA, probably because the way Apostolis interpretes the songs has many common elements with Max Cavalera's way of singing. One friendly advice to Apostolis is that he has to improve his pronounciation in English. All well up to now and here comes thr disadvantage of this album, which is the production. Liking it or
not it's a fact that the sound of Disharmonic requires well polished productions. The poor sound of the demo has as an effect to reduce the brutality of the songs, which are killers believe me! Nevertheless, I think that in live shows the band will take many heads off their places with their new tracks. You can order the demo by sending 5 Euro (Greece) and 7 Euro/$ (rest of the world) postpaid from the address: APOSTOLIS MOKAS, ANTHIMOY GAZI 244, 38222 VOLOS, GREECE.
EMAIL: disharmonic666@hotmail.com
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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SICKENING HORROR
Promo
Sickening horror exist as a band since 2002 and they come from Athens Greece. They simply play, classic death metal with a lot of new technical elements without losing the death metal style or feeling, and they play really unique and in a way that the death metal fans will be surprised. The production is really good and for the Greek standards I can even say it's marvellous. As for the vocals are amazing, and the music is a perfect combination of power, speed and technique. As a result of their will and efforts to make good music the band played as supporting act to bands like NILE, MISERY INDEX, SEPTIC FLESH and people's reactions during their live performances were really fantastic, cause when this band is on stage they simply are like animals (you've got to see them). I also have to mention that the covers they do, of metal gods like Morbid Angel, Death....are really good. You can contact and buy the promo from this e-mail: sickeninghorror@hotmail.com for only 2 Euro. Trust me, this is a perfect investment. Why? Because on this cd you will hear 3 amazing death metal songs and I am sure you won?t expect them to be so fucking good. I have to say that the drummer of the band is G. Kollias (see also NIGHTFALL) but that doesn?t mean anything. If you buy this promo only because you are a NIGHTFALL fan then fuck you. Buy it in order to hear great death metal and not for any other reason. Nothing more, nothing less. In the end I have to give my congratulations to the band as they gave 200 promos to the crowd (in their Live with NILE and MISERY INDEX) for free, and that?s a great example of how every small band should work and think if they really want to achieve anything. Sickening Horror are ready to sign a contract with a big label. With my blessing I believe that in a few years this band might (just a thought and just my opinion) be amongst the giants of the death metal scene.
Nick "Warlord" Sioutis
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MAMA KIN
Partytime
I presented the previous Mama Kin demo a few months ago. Now it's about time to talk about their brand new demo. First of all the sound is improved and I think it's very good for the kind of music they play. Mama Kin insist on their hard rock with the poser touches and they are right cause they do an excellent job! Their sound is close to the sound they had on their previous demo, but now the KISS influences are extremely obvious! The Mama Kin songs could be easily placed among the Kiss's songs on the "Double Platinum" cd and you could hardly hear the difference... This is an exaggeration but I want to show you how great the songs are. Apart from these Chris Action the band's singer and guitarist has improved his vocals a lot! In conclusion, it's good to have bands like Mama Kin cause this genre of the hard music seems to be a bit neglected lately. If you are into hard rock music with a poser attitude then this is THE band for you! Check them out!!!
CONTACT: the_kin@hotmail.com
SITE: http://www.mamakin.tk
Christine Parastatidou
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PUNCH YOUR FACE
Demo
Punch Your Face are not the typical hardcore band. They gave me the impression, by listening to their 2 track demo, that they are fans of the good old '80s hardcore. You see back then the bands were playing stuff that had nothing to do with nu or rap metal shit that MTV is trying to feed us with every day. Bands like M.O.D., S.O.D., D.R.I. have a lot of references to thrash metal. Well, this is exactly the same thing that Punch Your Face do. They mix their hardcore with thrash and death metal influences and the result is simply killer! The production is modern and on professional standards without betraying the '80s feeling. 100% original hardcore/crossover. Labels sign them and fans buy their demo or else go to hell!!! My congratulations...
SITE: http://www.punchyourfacenyhc.com
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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VALKIJA
Days Of The Rising Sun
(Promo 2002)
Valkija is an Italian band (Hail to the metal neighbors) that play a mix of power and epic metal. In their promo you can hear 5 fantastic songs, the lyrics of which speak about Lovecraftian Stories. Very important is that the band has an extremely unique style, that of course has its influences (there is no band on this planet without influences) but without copying anyone. I can trace some Virgin Steele elements (in the music and the vocals), also some Omen (Kimball era) influences (mostly in the style of the voice or the beautiful Zoraija) and Iron Maiden (DiAnno era) elements (in the music), but mostly is perhaps the only band in the world that reminds (if you don?t like remind use reach) me a little bit of the style and the dark atmosphere of Adramelch (yes the Italian Epic-Doom masters). As you may have understood the band has a female vocalist yes that?s Zoraija, and trust me she's got a marvellous, mystic, voice that possesses you from the first minute. On the guitars you will hear sensational riffs and solos and as a final word on the music section I've got to say nothing more than the fact that hear we have 5 diamonds that you all have to hear. The production is not the best possible, BUT for the band's luck it works well enough as it creates a good atmosphere perfectly matched with the music and lyrics. Finally the cover is not the best but it "works" and matches with the lyrics. Inside the booklet you will also find a photo of the band and lyrics (to all the bands of the planet I have to say this for 1000 time, metal is not only music. It's also art, don?t put only you?re music on a cd, lyrics and photos can make a fan to buy a demo easier). And last but not least, you can contact the band via this e-mail: valkija@libero.it, not only for buying their demo but also for speaking with them (they are great guys). This is a buy or die situation, with my blessings get this 5 songs cd. It's an excellent investmet that you won't regret and also we have to help this band to reach the top. They deserve it. I believe that a contract is very near (just for gossip, I won't say the name, but a Greek label is in touch with the band). Good luck Valkija! Happy Heavy Metal New Year Metalheads of the World.
Nick "Warlord" Sioutis
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...THE SUN OF WEAKNESS
Demo
...The Sun Of Weakness are one of the most interesting proposals I could point out for you if you are searching for a really good atmospheric metal proposal. Their music is dark and voluminous, it has atmosphere and depth, creating some really bitter and meloncholic sentiments to you throughout the whole listening. This demo contains 5 compostions and all of them bear strongly the essence and stigma of ANATHEMA's strongest and best period according to me, which is no other than the incredible "Eternity". The production is a bit low and quite muddy, but mainly it's satisfying and allows you to listen to the songs without tiring you or giving you any hard times. To sum it up I can say that these guys have potential and if they don't fall into any traps, the future shines bright for them!
CONTACT: thesunofweakness@katamail.com
Christine ParstatidouMETALLY INSANE
Rock Until We Fall
This band could more properly be described as a gathering of musicians and it's a project from Chrisafis Tantanozis, the drummer and leader of CRYSTAL TEARS. As I said just above, Chrisafis was inspired by Ronnie James Dio's "Hear 'n' Aid", gathered some of the best musicians in Thessaloniki and composed the song "Rock Until We Fall", which is a tribute to the heavy metal way of life. The simplicity and sincerity of the lyrics will make you love it from the very first moment! Very impressive is also the maturity and the professionalism of all the musicians participating here, which leads the composition near perfection! If you want to listen to a classic heavy metal song, then Metally Insane will fulfil your expectations. After MORTAL AFFAIR, this project also comes to state that the Greek metal scene has surpassed the obstacles of the past and has musicians that can offer great pieces of work. All that is needed is a little bit of faith from all of us!!! I think that the cd is distributed for free, but it's better to ask Chrisafis first, how you can get it. EMAIL: chrisafis_tantanozis@hotmail.com
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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VIA SERPENTIS
Promo 2003
Incredible, up tempo, hellish and demonized black metal is what Via Serpentis introduce us with this promo 2003 cd, which contains 2 new compositions, "Generating Lifeforms Elite" and "Vellat Umbra Diem". The guys managed to create a really frozen atmosphere, dark and impresive black metal that nails you down with its incredible and sharp riffs, stone wall rhythms and blastbeats. Of course, as you might have already realized, there is no place for keyboards here. The vocals sound like howlings of a tormented and cursed soul and take you along to this blessed hellride. The production is crystal clear and flawless, really heavy, with volume and power. I can't point out any mistakes or flaws... It's really amazing!!! I am looking forward to hearing some more songs...I bet it won't be a problem for them to find a record label...
Get in touch with the band and order at once their promo at the following email: viaserpentis@hotmail.com
Christine Parastatidou
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CHIMAERA
Blade Master
A German band that doesn't have a German sound? Yes indeed! Chimaera hail us from Germany and they play heavy/power metal with many speed elements and thrash edges. Their latest demo under the title "Blade Master" contains 7 songs and 4 of them are live recordings. The band has interesting compositions, clever riffs that stick to your mind and if you need to have a general clue of their style, I'd mention bands like OVERKILL, METALLICA, METAL CHURCH, AGENT STEEL and SAVAGE GRACE. However, Chimaera have developed their personal sound and the above mentioned bands can be only used as a general direction towards the band's musical path. I'd advice you to check them out cause they are a very good band and they have the potential to give us interesting songs in the future. The only thing I'd like to underline and intimate is the bad production, which doesn't allow the songs to show their abilities and catchy melodies. One last thing is that the singer should try some more, cause in some songs his interpretation is very good and in some others he makes some mistakes, which he must correct. So, what he needs is to find his own stigma and keep it on a standard level. Chech them out by sending your letters to the following address or emails...
CONTACT: CHIMAERA, PAN VOGIATZIS, BERLINER STR. 2, 56170 BENDORF, GERMANY.
EMAIL: pan@chimaera.de
SITE: http://www.chimarea.de
Christine Parastatidou
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THE BELONGING
Dreaming Darkness
The Belonging come from the United Kingdom and practice the unholy sport of black metal. And even though their style does not leave much freedom for renewal The Belonging with only three songs show that nothing is impossible when inspiration is present. They practically explore the whole spectrum of black metal starting from traditional sounds like early Mayhem, moving to the black splendor of bands like Immortal and even reach the fields of more epic and obscure ways like Primordial (at their black outbursts). ?Dreaming Darkness? starts out with a nice guitar prelude before jumping into action with ?Setting the Scene?, a song made for headbanging that would please every black metal fan! This song is very close to Immortal indeed but for you that were ready to jump to conclusions, The Belonging do NOT copy the Norwegians. A powerful start. After that we have ?Desecration? that surprises with its tapping intro but soon we return to familiar sounds where blastbeats and Norwegian riffology reign! And having enjoyed the two pure black/epic tracks of the demo we move on to the last song ?Dreaming Darkness? which reveals the band?s experimental nature. An almost slow emotive black anthem closes the demo exceptionally and shows that much has to be expected from them in the future. What I really appreciate is that the band was not stingy at the least when it came to riffs. The demo is full of many ideas that make the hearing much more interesting and multiform. Attention: all of the riffs are excellent! The typical black metal vocals are exactly what is needed for the music. We also have a marvelous production that lets all three tracks show their true character. A production comparable to professional works! Not bad for a demo eh? Exquisite drumming and of course wicked bass playing consist the rhythm section that along with a magnificent guitar sound, complete The Belonging?s whole image. Closing I?d like to say that this is a really remarkable effort from a new band that has to be supported. So, if you are into black metal with an intense dose of epic mentality do no hesitate to grab this one! Information is given below:
Send Ł2.50 (including P&P) to: The Belonging, 46 Kings Road, Ilkley, West Yorkshire,
LS29 9AT, UK
Checks payable to C. Butler
Web site: http://www.thebelonging.co.uk
Contact: the_belonging@hotmail.com
George "Volt" Tassis
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CALMSITE
Bite The Powerline
Having the chance to listen to their previous mini cd released half a year ago more or less, I can reassure you that Calmsite is a more than interesting and really promising band! I liked ?Steelpit? very much, but now that I listen to ?Bite The Powerline?, I realize right from the beginning that the guys improved a lot and have created so beautiful and enchanting compositions, that I get to listen to again and again. So, I suppose that the only drawback for this release I can mention is the fact that it?s a mini cd, consisted of 3 songs only, thus I have to push the play button many times. Despite the fact that I have already listened to ?Bite The Powerline? too many times, I never have enough and I can?t get bored of the songs. As I said right above, their tracks are catchy, they have really nice melodies and their melodic, mid tempo death metal with the harsh and brutal vocals is simply perfect. One more thing I liked a lot is the fact that the keyboards bear a strong 70s feeling and sensation and this is really great, enriching the songs and offering them a really personal and unique touch! The production is very good and clear and the whole package is beautiful and on professional standards. I can?t believe that they haven?t found a contract yet?Well, they are a young band and they have all the potential to become famous and I am sure they will?Check them out with no second thoughts!!!!
CONTACT: CALMSITE, JUKKA PENTTINEN, PAIVOLANTIE 27 A 7, 11120 RIIHIMAKI, FINLAND.
EMAIL: calmsite@hotmail.com
SITE: http://listen.to/calmsite
Christine Parastatidou
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REPENTANCE BORN
Follow The Sun
I don?t have much info regarding this band, since their release was burned to a cd-r and given to me along with a print out of the cover artwork. Repentance Born have a very good production, although this is a self financed album or a demo release?I really can?t tell. Let me, however, move to the very substance of this release that is no other than the band?s music of course. Well, Repentance Born can be described by me as a dark romantic metal band, which draws its influences from bands like PARADISE LOST (?Icon? and ?Draconian Times? period), METALLICA of the ?Black Album? era, ANATHEMA, SENTENCED and HIM. Add to all of the above a very original sound based upon the addition of some hard rock and why not, even poser metal elements. Tor?s vocals are very good and proper for the kind of music they play. A very good and relaxing suggestion, especially if you are a romantic type of guy or girl. So, lower the lights, drink a glass of wine and let the music of Repentance Born travel you to the very essence of romance?
CONTACT: repentanceborn@yahoo.co.uk
Nick ?William_Kidd? Parastatidis
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UNDERWATER MOON
Wondering?
(Demo CD ? Dark Winter Productions 2003)
This is a self-financed release from a band that seems to me that has serious intentions for their future! The magnificent work that has been done on the layout leaves no doubt that we can expect many nice things from them! But a nice layout would be nothing without good music to enclose. UnderWater Moon are one of the few bands of Greece that incorporates so many classic DOOM metal elements in the vein of bands like Candlemass. It is more than clear that the band has its target to the darkest of art and so this CD is very gloomy! Therefore their style cannot be described as DOOM only, even though that I also caught sight of a few classic metal influences, but as something else as well. That else would be of course gothic, impression generated by the vocals mainly and some carefully placed keyboards that give ?Wondering?? an ethereal touch. Therefore DOOM/gothic is what this band plays with a bigger lean for DOOM. I could say that they sometimes reminded me of Paradise Lost (in their nice times), a band real close to DOOM, not so much in the music but in mentality. The production is clear and balanced and that is another one of UnderWater Moon?s achievements. The element that really characterizes the hearing of the album is the vocals. CountRaven sings with much emotion and sounds like almost crying! Knowing that he?s got much credit for his singing I would say that people that are into gothic would like them. To be honest I have to say that they puzzled me more than once and sometimes even made me dislike them. His voice has an adolescent hue that many would love and also many would dislike. But since I wrote so many lines for this matter I guess that the vocals, love?em or hate?em, are something worthwhile, aren?t they? Oh well! The music balances mainly between DOOM and gothic as mentioned before. Songs like ?Heaven Of Eternal Night?, ?Funeral? and ?A Sun That Never Rises? show much potential. This album also has two covers of songs from Joy Division and Chris Isaak which are way beyond my taste! So I cannot say if they are good or bad, just that if I hadn?t had the CD I would have mistaken them for UnderWater Moon songs! A really personal approach. Before the grade I should point out some things that humble me thinks that need to be improved: the English accent and the guitar solos. That?s all! If you are into this kind of stuff then hurry up to order this very remarkable demo! Information is given below...
Send 5 euros to: CountRaven, 4 Tzenis Karezi, Str, Ermoupolis, Syros, Greece
CONTACT: countraven@hotmail.com
George "Volt" Tassis
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SEMIC STAINS
Sworn To Silence - Promo Cd
What? How can it be? Is it possible for a band like Semic Stains not to have a record deal? We are dealing here with an INCREDIBLE band!!!!! They took my head off!!! Their music is simply amazing and the band moves on very professional levels. In fact if you get to listen to their cd you will swear that it's a release coming from abroad. This demo is perfect from every aspect. The production is great, the band's technical skills on really high levels, their music sticks to your head, the artwork is well taken care of and the music is PERFECT!!!! Don't expect a normal review from me for such a release. The only thought popping out of my mind right now is to say again and again that this is a fantastic release and to congratulate Semic Stains!!!! Just to give you a general idea for their music, I'd say that they belong to melodic death metal with some faster and more aggressive fragments every now and then. GREAT, EXCELLENT, WELL DONE! it's a pity that this demo contains 3 songs only... Don't you even think of not getting this demo!!! Get the chance to listen to a great band making its first steps, a star is born. CONTACT: SEMIC STAINS, STATHIS THEODOROY, IKARIAS 17, GLYFADA, P.O. BOX 16675, ATHENS, GREECE.
EMAIL: semic_stains@hotmail.com
SITE: http://www.metalprovider.com/semicstains
Christine Parastatidou
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EMERALD SUN
High In The Sky
The first time I listened to this band was around 1998 in a live show since then a lot have changed and improved. First of all they've changed their line up and their style is closer to European power metal rather than the U.S. oriented power metal they used to playing during the first years of their existence. Their compositions are more amture and well structured and not just a sweing of good ideas, as it was in the past. Another plus for them is the singer Dimitris, who has a very good voice and a lot of experience with previous metal bands. Their influences derive from bands like IRON MAIDEN, BLIND GUARDIAN, RHAPSODY and GAMMA RAY with some fragments of U.S. metal. This is their first demo, so I think they have some things to correct. First of all, the sound, is a bit moody and we all know that european power metal needs at least a "clean" production. One other thing is that in some parts that they use dual vocals, the singer must moderate his passion cause he makes a few mistakes. Anyway "High In The Sky" is a very good debut work and the band gives it for free. So, if you are interested , you can contact with them to: emeraldsun_power@yahoo.gr.
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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ACID BABY
Greatest Shit
Strange name...not a very pleasant and attractive title for a debut demo...and that's it! They have already won your attention! I don't know how I should start this review cause I really enjoyed their demo and I listen to it every day and believe me not just once. I really liked them and I don't know where I should start from... the guys play hard rock and their main influences derive from great bands of the 70s and 80s. Don't rush into characterizing them as stoner rock, because although you may find some BLACK SABBATH riffs and influences in their music, their style has nothing in common with all those tons of stoner rock bands popping out lately. Acid Baby have above all a unique sound and leave their personal stamp on all their compositions. So, you might listen to some DEEP PURPLE, URIAH HEEP elements especially on the keyboards and some BLACK SABBATH riffs on the guitars, but all the songs breath the air of confidence and why not? They deserve it! The sound is very good! The songs have catchy melodies and interesting ideas, the artwork is well taken care of and generally satisfaction is guranteed. A big plus according to me is the singer who has a great voice and a strange and personal way of interpreting the songs, nothing you heard before I suppose, and this makes the final outcome even more pleasing to the ears. I'd advice you not to hesitate and to contact Acid Baby, because it's a band that can make the difference!
CONTACT: ACID BABY, DIMOSTHENOYS 2D, 14562, KIFISIA, ATHENS, GREECE.
EMAIL: AcidBaby_Band@yahoo.com
Christine Parastatidou
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P.A.T.H.
Demo 2002
The band tole me that they play the music they like without being restrained by any metal genre. These words are justified by the versatility of their music. Yes my friends, P.A.T.H. with their second demo managed to create their own sound. Their trademark is the contrast between their enchanting melodies played by the keyboards and the extreme heavy metal played by the rest of the instruments. To make it simple, the band plays atmospheric death/black with some psychedelic 70's rock elements, epsecially in the solos that make the final result sound more exotic. One other think that you have to notice is that 4 out of the 6 songs of this demo were played live, something that shows the band's abilities and it also explains the bad sound. well, I think that P.A.T.H. is one of those bands that really can renew the sound of the Greek metal scene. Don't have second thoughts! Buy this demo immediately from the following address: P.A.T.H., VITORATOS SPYROS GERASSIMOS, 10 EUPALINOU STR., 26441 PATRA, GREECE.
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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P.A.T.H. / UNHOLY THRONE
Altering The Dark
Split Live Cd
P.A.T.H.: P.A.T.H. is a bizarre band. Bizarre in musical terms of course. If you ask me what characterizes their music, then I'd tell you that it's not only one thing... This demo contains 3 live songs and I don't exaggerate saying that each and every song has a different structure and is based on a different instrument. What do I mean? The first song is pure atmosphere, keyboards have the front and almost complete role and create a dark and blood chilling atmosphere and as for the rest 2...well they could be described as American death metal with guttural vocals, interesting guitar riffs and mid paced rhythm sections. The guitars are down tuned and really heavy and aggressive. They have very interesting ideas, but I think the sound (of course it's a live recording and this is the main reason why the sound is poor) should me more taken care of cause many of their ideas are lost in the noise.
CONTACT: P.A.T.H., VITORATOS SPYROS GERASSIMOS, 10 EUPALINOU STR., 26441 PATRA, GREECE.
UNHOLY THRONE: Unholy Throne is the second band of this split cd participating with 3 live songs. Their style is old school black metal with atmospheric keyboards. Keyboards that are carefully placed and have an important role and create a heavy, dark and bitter atmosphere. What I liked very much is the connection between the classic black metal elements, the keyboards and the evil, hysterical and twisted vocals that sound really perverted in some parts. The guys surely have potential, but once again like I mentioned above, since this is a live recording, the sound is bad and many elements and dimensions of the band's music are lost... The real blacksters should check them out.
CONTACT: UNHOLY THRONE, MANIKAS THEODOROS, 82 KON/POLEOS STR., 26223 PATRA, GREECE.
Christine Parastatidou
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AGNES VEIN
...Of Chaos And Law
To play epic metal in the veins of MANOWAR is an easy task (without showing in this way disrespect to the bands playing like this). But to play like MANILLA ROAD and CANDLEMASS needs a certain maturity. Agnes Vein seem to have this element and impress you with the way they manage to assimilate their influences and create something personal. they can be easily compared musically with the epic metal gods DOOMSWORD. Their music functions as a vehicle, which travels you to mythical ages and to Mr. Moorcock's multiverse (actually the title "...Of Chaos And Law" makes it quite obvious) and it also has something of MANILLA ROAD'S mysticism. The vocals are quite close to the way Mr. Shelton sings, but they need improvement. Start your initiation to the Agnes Vein music by sending 4 Euro to the following address: NEGROS ERRIKOS, KIPROU 51, P.O. BOX 56533, POLIHNI, THESSALONIKI, GREECE
OR EMAIL them at: agnesvein@yahoo.gr. All the songs are very good, but my favourite one is "Catharsis: The Voice Of The Sea".
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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DISCREPANCY
The Death Is Deserved
Discrepancy come from Turkey and to be honest this is the first time I hear about this band, so I don't have any further info to give you, except for the fact that this demo contains 5 songs of 23 minutes total running time. The artwork and layout are well taken care of and on professional standards. This quartet delivers us death metal. We are mainly dealing with american type death metal, but you can also listen to some melodic, European death metal touches and some black fragments. The bands that they reminded me of are SIX FEET UNDER, CANNIBAL CORPSE and AT THE GATES on some guitar riffs and rhythms. Their compositions are mainly id tempo, doom, slow and imposing, without, however, the fast rhythms and breaks missing. If the production was better, we would speak of a really professional release. The production is dirty and a bit dull, but if you don't mind or manage to get over it, then this demo will surely win you!
CONTACT: discrepancy@hotmail.com
Christine Parastatidou
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MORIBUND OBLIVION
Like A Falling Haze
(Black Pro Music)
A long time has passed since I've listened to a new metal release from Turkey and I was really happy when my best friend Adnan gave me this demo. You see I like the Turkish metal scene, cause it reminds me a lot of the Greek one (even if this statement annoys some fanatic narrow minded people from both sides). Now, Moribund Oblivion play black metal enriched with many classic heavy metal melodies and riffs. they reminded me of our ROTTING CHRIST (of the "Non Serviam" period) with some DIMMU BORGIR and CRADLE OF FILTH fragments. the music and the compositions included in this demo are very good, but the big disadvantage is the production which is of average quality. I know that black metal doesn't need a well polished production, but here it's very poor and dull and this results on the reducing of the aggressiveness of their sound. Anyway the compositions as I said above are very good and this counts above all!
CONTACT them at: moribundoblivion@hotmail.com
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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KGB/TUG
Split 2002
KGB: The split cd starts with 18 songs from KGB. If you listen to the band's music, you will agree that it's the definition of controversy, although somehow they manage to create a very solid result. You see KGB are mixing in their music punk rock, classic rock with hardcore and metal (there are moments that they use growls that reach the broders of death/grind) and some electro touches. I discovered in their sound influences from bands like TRYPES, ANTIDRASI and MOUSIKES TAKSIARCHIES (I'd like to apologise to the friends from abroad, cause all these bands are famous within the Greek borders and I can't be more specific). The lyrics are written in Greek and they are radical, revolutionary and well worked. Finally, I want to say that there are some points on this album that the band exaggerates and this results on the creation of some noisy and a bit pointless songs that reduce the final outcome. there are not many though and if they work on this a bit more then I am sure they will give even better releases in the future. till then, the friends of Greek punk/hardcore check them out, because you will discover a very interesting and original band for the standards of this genre... CONTACT with KGB at: shrhq_kgb@hotmail.com
TUG: With TUG things are more straight forward than KGB. They play a mixture of rock/ punk rock/ hardcore and they are not afraid of experimenting with their music, but not as much as KGB do. To be more accurate, TUG are more classic in their sound and also more melodic than KGB. Let's say that they are the other side of the same coin. Here once again the lyrics are written in Greek, but they are more emotional and esoteric rather than revolutionary. Their sound is close to bands like KSILINA SPATHIA (their first album era), STEREO NOVA, MAGIC DE SPELL, SYSTEM OF A DOWN and RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE (in their more rap metal moments). in my opinion TUG worth to attract the interest of a label...
CONTACT: parkinsons_tug@hotmail.com
SONIC HOLOCAUST RECS, AMFISSIS , 26331, PATRA, GREECE.
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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JACKHAMMER
The Ultimate Martyr - Promo 2000
A new Italian metal band with some very known musicians. Jackhammer have 2 members from the well known epic-power metallers WHITE SKULL (hail!!!). What do they play? Power metal with some modern touches like PANTERA, NEVERMORE and some thrash outbursts. 100% headbanging music with lots of attitude and personality! All 4 songs included are very good and will satisfy even the most demanding power metallers. If you like bands like BRAINSTORM, LETHAL, SANCTUARY and BIOMECHANICAL, then grab this release without having second thoughts. A big plus is also the singer, who has an incredible voice. Italy continues to give us interesting bands that refresh this exploited genre and of course I am talking about power metal. Nothing more to say than the fact that I will wait with anxiety to listen to their full length release.
CONTACT: KARIN EVIN, LOVE MUSIC CENTER, VIA GARDONE 11, 20319 MILANO, ITALY.
EMAIL: klovmusic@hotmail.com
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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HATRED DIVINE
Of Light And The Absence Of Light
The Hatred Divine are not the typical black metal group and this is something you get to realize from the first notes you hear! They prefer to blend in their music with lots of melodies and with the use of baroque and symphonic musical elements played by the keyboards, they create a dark poetic but yet romantic atmosphere! On the other hand the guitars are really sharp and heavy. A combination of power and melody, a perfect soundtrack for a lonely traveller are some of the descriptions and feelings that fit in Hatred Divine's usic. they follow the path carved by bands like AGATHODAIMON, DIMMU BORGIR and ANGIZIA, but they don't follow it with blind eyes. On the contrary, the band has the maturity to leave its own print on the compositions! I have never expected to say that for a black metal release, but "Of Light And The Absence Of Light" was realy a relaxing and enjoyable listening. If you don't think that romantism is weakness or makes you feel less metallheads then let Hatred Divine narrate their stories and lead you to their dark realm, where shadows live. the demo has the duration of a full length album and so its price 6€ (including shipping) are not much.
CONTACT: STEPHAN SPANAUS, ST. GEORGSSIEDL. 36 C, 83043 BAD AIBLING, GERMANY
EMAIL: seth@hatreddivine.de
SITE: www.hatreddivine.de
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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RAVENCULT
Cosmic Chaos
After so many careful listenings, my feelings and impressions about this demo remain the same. Personally, I consider this demo one of the best black metal works that I've listened to this year. Ravencult are not a bunch of kids that want to create noise and show off how evil they are! Far from this poser attitude and with a total respect to the black metal scene, they create black/death metal hymns that "breathe" the maturity of the band. An element that makes this release more extraordinary is the epic thrashy feeling that all the songs included here have. The demo's artwork is also very impressive and in professional standards. Something that completes the good image of this package! I have only good words to say for this release and I would advise you to make yourselves a favor and buy this "diamond" of the black metal music. I would like to ask you to forgive my exaggeration, but I consider that Ravencult is the BEST band that the Greek black metal scene gave birth till now. Thank you for the greatness of your music.
I should note here that the demo is released in a CD/MC format and it costs 5 €.
SITE: http://come.to/ravencult
EMAIL: ravencult@mail.com
CONTACT: RAVENCULT, PO BOX 86530, GR-18505, KALLIPOLI, PIRAEUS, GREECE.
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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B-CODE
B-Code
(Temple Of Noise)
This is not the kind of metal you get to listen to everyday...and it's really hard for me to describe it, cause there is always the "fear" of misleading those who read the review or creating wrong impressions. Generally, the hearing of this demo is more than pleasant and the music flows easily. Just lie back and enjoy! The production is good and clear and helps the elevation of the compositions and the demonstration of the band's skills. Now as far as the music itself is concerned the guys from Italy play a mixture of classic heavy metal with some stoner touches and alternative/grunge elements and the final result is enriched with some hardcore/brutal vocals every now and then. Don't misunderstand what I am saying, cause this is not the typical band promoted by MTV or such channels, but it's the kind of music that yearns for listeners with open mind and broad musical horizons.
SITE: http://www.b-code.it
EMAIL: info@b-code.it
TEMPLE OF NOISE CONTACT: www.templeofnoise.com and
EMAIL: contact@templeofnoise.com
Christine Parastatidou
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NICTA
Dark Rays Rip The Light
There is no doubt that the Italian metal scene is one of the healthiest in Europe lately! It is very easy to reach to this conclusion if you listen to the albums and demos that Italian bands have released the last 2-3 years. Most of them have originality, fantasy and skillfull playing. All of the above can also describe the sound of this great band, Nicta. the guys are simply unbelievable! They mix power, black, progressive and death metal in a very mature way. Bands like VIRGIN STEELE, CRADLE OF FILTH, DARK TRANQUILLITY, RHAPSODY and RUNNING WILD have influenced their sound to the point that they helped them create their own personality and assimilate these influences. Fabio valentini is a really impressive singer changing his voice from power into black metal vocals! One of the most interesting and original bands that exist in the boundless field of heavy metal music! Check them out...
CONTACT: GRAZIANO FERRACIOLI, VIA F. FILZI 148, 45030 CENESELLI (RO), ITALY.
EMAIL: metalnicta@libero.it
SITE: http://www.nicta.cjb.net
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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BLACK WINTER
A Dark Echo From The Demonicacal Hell Of Lucifer
Old fashioned black metal is what these guys deliver us. Old and rotten sound, hellish riffs combined with some atmospheric keyboard passages and tormented, satanic vocals complete the mosaic of Black Winter's compositions. The band's image and attitude is the usual anti-christian, satanic one and this is obvious in all 6 songs of this demo release. The band delivers infernal black metal as they so eloquently mention in the vein of bands like CARPATHIAN FOREST, MAYHEM, MARDUK and DARK THRONE. Their production is not very good, however, the sound is as it should be for such a release...dirty and raw. Need to find out more?
Then email the band at: astrous666@hotmail.com
SITE: http://www.blackwinter666.cjb.net
CONTACT: ASTROUS, ANT. MATESI 48, NEA POLITIA 41335, LARISSA, HELLAS
Christine Parastatidou
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ATROPOI
Atropoi
Atropoi is a band from Greece and they don't belong to the metal genre but in the rock-hard rock one. For the non Greeks it's difficult to understand exactly what this band plays, because referring some names will be of no use to them. So, the two guys behind this band play rock with some hard rock guitar themes and their compositions are not dull and boring but they have melodic riffs and a really groovy and up tempo sound which makes the whole hearing very comfortable and pleasant. The fact is that the more I get to listen to the cd the more I like it and in fact I have already listened to it 4 times in a row whilst writing this review. Indeed it's a really nice work and if the guys from abroad that read this review are not annoyed by the fact that the lyrics are in Greek, then they should proceed. The production is good and clean and it has volume. It's a very satisfactory release and the only drawback I found is the vocals in some parts in the first song, which could be a bit better. And I thought I couldn't listen to Greek rock music...
EMAIL: atropoi@yahoo.gr
OR WRITE TO: DRISAS DIMITRIS, AG. DIONYSIOY 41, 18010, KYPSELI, AEGENA.
Christine Parastatidou
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CIRCLE OF NERO
Demo
Amazing! Simply amazing! This cd belongs to the category of the releases that no one should neglect and the reason is obvious as soon as you get to listen to their music. I don't know how these guys managed to do it, but they have created their own sound, which will of course now and then remind you of some great bands such as BLACK SABBATH, BLACK LABEL SOCIETY and even PANTERA and so many others that I can't mention, but in the whole it has such a unique atmosphere I doubt if you've ever heard it from any other band before. The album starts off dynamically with a very good intro and then pure holocaust follows up! Great guitars, steady rhythm section and an excellent vocalist. Their music is what I call true progressive, cause it can't be listed anywhere, but it has the power to stand up and distinguish from the rest. Their compositions are an amalgam of classic heavy themes, progressive structures, some stoner riffs and the heavy PANTERA crossover sound. If you want to be proud of your cd collection, then...CONTACT IMMEDIATELY: CIRCLE OF NERO, JAKE VORRATH, 6 PINE TREE LN., STAFFORD VA, 22556, USA.
Christine Parastatidou
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MARATHON
"The Best Of"
This is not a heavy metal release my friends, but this was not an obstacle for me to enjoy this CD. MARATHON with their music take us to a journey back to the roots of rock and heavy metal music. Yes, they lay blues/rock with some rock 'n' roll and hard rock elements. MILTOS HALKIDIS is more than a capable and talented musician for this kind of music and his vocals have a bluesy touch, which in some parts brought to my mind Glen Danzing! I am really surprised that nobody from Greece was interested in signing such a good and quality band! Maybe, a lack of musical education? Anyway the demo includes 14 songs from all the years of existence of this band (they started in 1995) and is a really good chance for you to listen to something different! In my opinion MARATHON had the misfortune to play this kind of music in Greece, because abroad they would already have a contract. You can buy the CD and contact the band to the following address :
MARATHON - MILTOS HALKIDIS - AMMOHOSTOY 8 - LARISA, AVEROF - P.O. BOX 41335 - GREECE
PHONE : +30 2410-661472
EMAIL : marathon@mail.gr
Nikos "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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ULTIMATIUM
"Follow The Star"
Sometimes when we try to write a review and make the people understand what kind of music one band plays, we use so complicated terms and expressions that might create great confusion. You see, many times we have to write a review for two or more bands that play in the shame way and it happens to like more the one the other. What I want to say is that it's not always easy to justify why you like or dislike something. I believe that you also have felt many times the same way. Now, you must be wondering whya I am writing all these things. Well, the answer is that as you know from my previous reviews, I am not a big fan of euro - power metal, especially the one that is influenced from STRATOVARIUS. But exceptions break the rule. CELESTY and ULTIMATIUM belong to this exception. First of all I have to state that I am very impressed with the progress of this band. You see I have listened to their previous demo as well, but this one is improved in many ways. First of all my friend Matti has finally a stable band and line - up and he doesn't use guest musicians. Secondly, all the compositions on this demo are excellent examples of how inspired, melodic power metal should be played! Also the singer of ULTIMATIUM has a wonderful voice and in some parts his voice brought to my mind Tobias Sommet of EDGUY. If you like bands like STRATOVARIUS, RHAPSODY, EDGUY and EUROPE, then you can't ignore this demo! Really an amazing work that many bands with contract will envy. One of the best demos that I heard this year! All the songs included in this demo (4) are very good, so don't ask me for favorite ones , cause simply it's very difficult for me to pick out!
CONTACT : ultimatium@jippii.fi
SITE : htpp://ultimatium.cjb.net
Nikos "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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FALCON
Demo 2003
...And before even enjoying listening to the excellent demo by Sabatan, here comes this release that made me feel one of the biggest and most pleasant surprises of all this time that I involve with Behind the Veil. This surpises is basd on 2 reasons. First of all I am a big fan of CIRITH UNGOL and "Frost And Fire" is one of my most beloved albums. By the time I pushed the play button, my excitement was huge. The first song "Shelob's Lair" is like it came from the first Cirith Ungol album. Amazing and all of you who love Cirith ungol you will realize what I say as soon as you listen to the song. "Shelob's Lair" was composed by the man who was also responsible for "Frost And Fire", the holy monster listening to the name Greg Lindstrom. The second reason is because I always liked 70s hard rock as it was performed by bands like LED ZEPPELIN, THIN LIZZY, BLACK SABBATH and SCORPIONS and these gentlemen managed to perfectly recreate that atmosphere, without copying it like the stoner rock bands do. It's not a coincidence that this band is consisted of great musicians like Perry Grayson (x-DESTINY'S END, now in ARTISAN), Darin McCloskgy (PALE DIVINE) and Greg Lindstrom (CIRITH UNGOL). Friends of quality hard rock and Cirith Ungol this release is more than a must for your collection. All the songs are incredible. The only objection I have is on the production, since I expected some better results by these guys. I wish I had a record label...I'd make sure not to lose this band at any cost!!!
CONTACT: FALCON, P/O PERRY GRAYSON, 6442 PAT AVE., WEST HILLS, CA 91307, U.S.A.
OR EMAIL: fortress@thevine.net
SITE: http://www.thevine.net/~fortress/falcon.htm
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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DISHARMONIC
Unholy Remains
Disharmonic come from Volos and with thier first demo try to introduce us their musical style. the band plays extreme music and mix many styles, from death to thrash and black to hardcore. I think that amongst their influences stand bands like SEPULTURA, SODOM, BLACK SABBATH and ROTTING CHRIST. All the songs in this demo, except for "Morbid Dream" (which is a midpaced song) are speedy with some mid tempo breaks every now and then. Generally their demo leaves many promises for the future and if the band keeps on working hard, then it's sure that they will offer great stuff in the future. The production is quiet good for a demo and epsecially for a band that doesn't come from Athens (where all the good studios are). The only song in the demo that I didn't like much was "Morbid Dreams". I think that they do a better work in the faster tracks. By far "Illusions From The Dark Past" is my favorite song from this album, because they managed to combine the melody with the brutality of thrash metal and it has a dose of originality. "Speed Without End" is also a good speed/thrashcore track. In a few words their demo left me with really good impressions, but they have to work a bit more in order to become better release after release. the demo costs 5 Euros/$ and you can get it from: DISHARMONIC, 98 MEANDROU STR., N. IONIA 38445, VOLOS, GREECE also support the band and contact them to the following EMAIL: disharmonic666@hotmail.com
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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MURDER ONE
Murder Co.
I think that the most suitable way to start this review is by stating that at first I didn't know that I was dealing with a native band. I received the promo package and despite the fact that the first thing I always do is read the biography, this time I put the bio aside and placed the cd in the cd player. This quintet from Athens, Greece delivers us a mixture of thrash with death metal in the veins of AT THE GATES, HYPOCRISY and THE HAUNTED although their sound is a bit more aggressive and not so close to the Swedish death metal. They also have some extentions towards the American death metal sound. Ending, I should also mention that the production is on more than decent levels for a demo, though it could be a bit better and perhaps a bit more aggressive and as for the artwork I have to say that it is very well taken care of, with a nice cover and layout. To sum up the band has everything required to move on and make themselves known not only in the restricted Greek borders. The whole package moves on professional standards! It's a great and pleasing thing to see such great efforts from Greek bands. Well done!
CONTACT: B. DERMETZIS, ALKIFRONOS 3, 11853, PETRALONA, ATHENES, GREECE
EMAIL: murderone@otenet.gr
Christine Parastatidou
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SABATAN
Metal Louder
The only reason that releases like this are not presented as official, is because thier music is reproduced in cd-rom and not in professionally burned cds. Sabatan are really a great band! In this demo you will discover 4 diamonds of classic 80s heavy metal. Yes, the kind of music that makes your head bang till the cd is over. Although, they are inspired by bands like ACCEPT, IRON MAIDEN, JUDAS PRIEST, DIO and RAINBOW, they don't do it ina very obvious way. You might find it strange for the kind of music they play, but I found in their music many original and unique elements based on the experience they've earned through the years. Their singer has a great voice and this is a big plus for their music. Friends of classic heavy metal I think that this release is a MUST HAVE for all of you.
CONTACT: SABATAN, C/O DAVID BALLESTER, P.O. BOX 52011, 28080 MADRID, SPAIN.
EMAIL: sabatan@inicia.es
SITE: http://www.sabatan.es.vg
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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DEFORGE
Freedoom Release
I can't see why I should place this review in the demo section and why Deforge view this as a demo cd and not as a self financed independent release. If you could see the whole package and get to listen to their music, I bet you'd agree with me. Everything is done on professional standards. The artwork is incredible, dark and atmospheric, the layout is good and the production is very good, heavy and clear. The lyrics are thought provoking and you have to read between the lines in order to get a clue. I think I covered all the general issues and it's time to try and offer a description of their music. Generally, they dwell somewhere in between thrash and death, but mainly dangerously flirting with death metal. So, a general but accurate description of their music would be technical and melodic death metal with thrash elements. They have technical skills and abilities which are proven by the often change of rhythms and moods in between each song and their sound is close to bands like DEATH and TESTAMENT with a CYNIC touch and to Swedish death metal bands like ENTOMBED and HYPOCRISY. Do yourselves a favor and listen to a promising young band!
CONTACT : ETTORE GAETANO, VIA GALVANI 3, 64022BGIULIANOVA(TE), ITALY
EMAIL : contact@deforgeband.com
SITE : http://www.deforgeband.com
Christine Parastatidou
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DEATH DU JOUR
Gamashinoch
Death Du Jour belong to the death-grind metal genre. Their first attempt is worthy and generous. Their performance is good and the guys seem to be very well bonded together and synchronized. The production of this demo cd is very good and nails you down from the very first minute. On the guitars we can distinguish and listen to some discernible music themes and the drummer "murders" us throughout the Ep. The vocals are miry, barbaric and brutal, however, an ear that is used to hearing such things, will be able to "catch" some of the lyrics. Impressively macabre and twisted is the cover and inner artwork of this cd!
CONTACT: DEATH DU JOUR, VARNAKATU 4M156, 20320 TURKU, FINLAND
EMAIL: pasi@wchmetal.net
George "Death Dealer - Echoes From Erebus" Kefalas
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SYMPHONY OF DESTRUCTION
No Love Till Death
Well, 2 things an happen when you finish listening to this demo. Either you like it a lot or hate it! Let me tell you my point of view and explain in a way the statement I did in the beginning. If you like the complicated orchestrations and the modern sound in heavy metal, then this demo is definitely not for you. On the other hand if you like N.W.O.B.H.M. and bands like HOLOCAUST, BLITZKRIEG, TYGERS OF PAN TAG and IRON MAIDEN with some rock elements, then you will definitely adore this album. As for me, I believe that there is either good or bad metal music and Symphony Of Destruction really managed to win me with their music. It's impressive how such simple structures, like these ones, can be so good and interesting. A big plus is the voice of Dimitris Kouniados, which is among the best voices I've listened to recently. It is so warm and full of emotions that we don't get often the chance to listen to in the new releases. Symphony Of Destruction prove that less is sometimes more and the most important thing for this music is passion! One other surprise for me was that when I read the band's name I expected to listen to spreed/thrash metal in the veins of Megadeth and not N.W.O.B.H.M.. The production is more than satisfying and although they use a drum machine it didn't bother me. I expect them, in their next release, to be a full band (find a drummer and a bassist) and not only being a 2 piece act. Anyway, they really did a very good job and the song "Lonely And Tired" became one of my favorites! CONTACT: DIMITRIS KOYNIADOS, HRAKLEOYS 46, TK. 19500, LAYRIO - ATTIKIS,, GREECE
PHONES : +302292023891 AND +306932067221
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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MACHINE CALLED MAN
"M.C.M. Demo"
MACHINE CALLED MAN is definitelly an intellegent metal band with some modern touches. Their compositions have such a variety and their ideas are "connected" in such a clever and beautiful way, that from a point on you can't do anything else than let yourself loose to be guided by the magic of their music! Their sound could be described as a caleidoscope of progressive, U.S. power metal and bay area thrash. I can't say which are exactly their influences, cause they have managed to absorb them in such a way that the whole result has their own signature! The singer can transform his voice every way he wants. You can hear from warm and emotionals vocals to raging screams. Though it's very risky, I 'd say that their music is close to bands like STEEL PROPHET, JACOBS DREAM (their first album in Metal Blade), TOURNIQUET, LETHAL, NEVERMORE (their 2 first albums) and a little bit of DREAM THEATER. Surely the label that will sign them, will be a very happy one. As for you that you want to listen to bands with innovative sound you don't have anything else to do than contact them (the cd costs 5 $ / EURO) : MACHINE CALLED MAN, 49 DERBY STREET, DALY CITY, CA 94015, U.S.A.
EMAIL : band@machinecalledman.com
You can also download the whole demo from the band's webpage : http://www.machinecalledman.com
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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ALLFADER
Demo 2003
Although Allfader is a new band from Norway, they seem prepared enough to achieve something here. I think they have the potential since I found some really interesting elements and riffs in the 3 songs of this demo release. The guys play a mixture of black with death metal with many brutal elements combined perfectly with enchanting melodies. The production is also good enough but a bit dim and dull, without preventing the compositions to be fully presented. Generally what I have to say closing this review is that the fans of melodic death/black or dark metal if that's how you like to call it can find an interesting companion in the face of those 5 gentlemen.
CONTACT: JOHN ERIK ANDERSEN, NEDRE FAGERASEN 14, N-8624 MO I RANA, NORWAY
SITE: http://www.allfader.cjb.net
EMAIL: dalamar@monet.no
Christine Parastatidou
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SYNASTHASIA
The Land Of Lores
These guys from Germany have done a very bold beginning! It's not a small thing your first full length album to be a concept. This nevertheless proves the high self esteem and tightness of the band. Syansthasia play melodic power metal influenced by bands like HELLOWEEN, STORMWITCH (second period "War Of The Wizards" album), IRON MAIDEN, STEEL ATTACK, CRYSTAL EYES and in some parts BLIND GUARDIAN and RUNNING WILD. Although many bands from Germany play this way, Synsthasia manage to present their ideas in a "fresh" way. The singer has the ideal voice for this music, sounding a bit like JAG PANZER's Harry "Tyrant" Cocklin and having a hard rock technique in interpreting the songs. So, generally Synasthasia having nothin to envy from some other bands that already have a contract. In my opinion Synasthasia won't find any difficulty in signing a contract with a label. The production is also very good. If all of the above mentioned are not enough to you, then I have to add that with only 4 EUROS you'll have in your hands a full length cd. My favorite songs are: "Discovery Of The Mask", "The Swamp" (I'd like them to compose some more songs like this one in the future), "The Mines", "Yvel", "Scotia's Death" and "In Misery" (absolutely great instrumental song in the vein of IRON MAIDEN).
CONTACT: DENNIS MARSCHALLIK, AN DER GEIS 28, 47228 DUISBURG, GERMANY OR CHRISTIAN BRUCKSCHEN, BEGUINESTR. 90, 47228 DUISBURG, GERMANY
SITE: http://www.synasthasia.de
EMAIL: synasthasia@gmx.de
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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LIFEND
Shattering Reality
Having the chance to follow a band's musical paths since their beginning you are able to witness or not their evolution. Sometimes you can be really happy and proud crossing paths with someone remarkable that is "doomed" to make a stand and become famous. There are some real gems out there waiting for us to notice them and I can say that Lifend belong to this very category. I've listened to their first effort "Entwined Emotions" and I was astonished by it, however, now things have become even better. The beauty naturally flows within their songs and the dark and cold emotions overtake you and leave you breathless. The atmosphere and extremity have a stronger role and the melodies have become more enchanting. Their compositions move to death/black paths with some gothic elements and I also found some more classic metal riffs. The use of 3 kinds of vocals (black, death and female ethereal ones) offer a variety that grips you tight and "forces" you to feel and share their inner thoughts and anguish. There is only one path they can follow and this is success. What can I say? I am enthralled!
CONTACT: LIFEND C/O, VIA CAVALERI 7, 20147 MILANO, ITALY
EMAIL: thiscoldlife@libero.it
SITE: http://www.lifend.org
Christine Parastatidou
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DARK NIGHTMARE
Earth In Danger
First of all I'd like to clear out something. Dimos. the guy playing the drums in this band is also a member of the Behind The Veil stuff. For this reason and in order to avoid criticism I'll put online an mp3 from this demo so you'll be able to download and listen to it and think and decide for yourselves. Back to the point. I only have positive remarks for this new demo from Dark Nightmare. The guys seem to have a good bontage and know where they are heading to musically. This is very positive cause many Greek bands have the tendency to change their msuic from release to release and thus they confuse the fans. Dark Nightmare have a varying taste and it's obvious in their music. The classic heavy metal they play sounds fresh and they are influenced by huge bands like RUNNING WILD (listen to "Hawks Of War", that also reminded me of Lonewolf), ACCEPT, IRON MAIDEN and some other more underground bands. Their lyrics once again are against wars and all against all the wrong things taking place in our society and are impressive for their maturity. The only thing their singer has to correct is the his high climaxes. He shouldn't scream that high, cause it doesn't sound good. This demo is one of the best I've ever heard not only from the Greek scene. Songs like "Hawks Of War" and "Despair And Hope" could easily be characterized as metal hymns. Friends of classic heavy metal you are obliged to send 5 Euros / $ to the following address in order to obtain this demo.
CONTACT:DIMOS KONSTADINIDIS, 62 FILLIPOY STR., 51100, GREVENA, GREECE.
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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WYTCHKRAFT
We Are Satan’s Warriors
(Demo tape limited to 500 copies)
This demo was sent to me by Shinge from GORGON (hail! No problem with the
interview pal!) to help these Brazilian friends of his (I’d advice the Greek bands to see
those kind of moves and be ashamed of themselves, since all they try to do is sabotage
one another). So, I kind of knew what I should expect to hear. Wytchkraft belong to that
category of bands that the mainstream metaller would accuse as romantic and dreamers
of a time long gone and they would consider as brainless all those who are fond of this
old school sound. If they want to think this way, then it’s their problem I guess and so
let’s move forward. Wytchkraft play N.W.O.B.H.M. with some elements from the
American metal, mainly OMEN influences. In the plus of this album you’ll find their
love for music something which is more than obvious from the passion with which they
play and interpretate. Their songs, as compositions, move to very good levels. I also
liked the fact that they recorded this demo playing live in the studio. One thing they
should correct is the production and the sound which is poor. I don’t deny that this
production fits to the branch they belong to, but you hear a “noise” that can get
irritating from a point on cause you can’t pay attention to the songs. Ending I think the
singer should control a little bit the passion with which he sings, cause sometimes he
can’t sing they way he wants to. If they correct the above mentioned things then we can
talk about a good promising band. This is their first demo and my impressions are more
than positive. I will wait till I listen to some more samples of their work. Till then this
tape will be a good companion in my walkman.
CONTACT: LIVE RECORDINGS ATTACK, C/O AGOSTINHO GUGONI, R. JOSE HERRERA HIGUEIRA, 254, JD. ICATU-VOTORANTIM /SP, 18110-235, BRAZIL
OR VIA EMAIL: sabbaticcal@ig.com.br
Nick “William_Kidd” Parastatidis
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CRAZY SADIE
Middle Finger Technology
These 4 gentlemen from U.K. have som really "mean" intnetions and plans against all
of us. They are determined to make you move your "lazy" asses and bang your heads
till the very last second. Their music has the power, the groove and the melody that can
excite you. Their thrashcore is deeply influenced by bands like SLAYER, ANTHRAX,
PANTERA, BIOHAZARD and by their co-patriots STAMPIN' GROUND. I will risk to
make a prediction here. I am sure that this band will easily find a contract and even sign
to a big underground metal label, cause they have inspiration, a professional production
and are a "tight" team. They simply have all the elements that characterize a winner, a
band that can evolve and make itself known. If you think that I exaggerate then you
just have to buy their demo, which includes 6 songs (it could be a mini cd - if it wasn't a
cd-r) and you will be convinced that they have quality. Favorite songs: "Human",
"Stardust", "Murderland" and "Dead".
CONTACT: CRAZY SADIE, 21 ALBERT SQUARE, STRATFORD, LONDON, E15
1HJ, U.K. or email : Colin_at_crazysadie@hotmail.com
SITE : http://www.crazysadie.co.uk
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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HONEY FOR CHRIST
Forging Iron Will
Most of us don't know much about the Irish metal scene. That's too bad, cause Ireland
has some really interesting bands, like Primordial, Waylander (they kick ass!!),
Mourning Beloveth (doom/death metal gods), etc. The new release from Ireland that
"shook my foundations" is Honey For Christ's demo. A demo that includes 3 heavy
metal hymns (no kidding!!!). Honey For Christ combine their 80's metal influences with
some thrash and melodic Swedish death metal elements (in the vein of In Flames). Their
music will satisfy even the most demanding heavy metal fan. Their singer does a great
job with his warm and emotional voice. Sometimes he brought to my mind Evergrey's
vocalist, Tom. I don't know if they sell this demo or if it's just for promotional use and
for the labels, but contact them to the following address : HONEY FOR CHRIST, c/o
32 MAGHERABEG ROAD, DROMORE, CO. DOWN, BT25 1RS, NORTHERN
IRELAND, UK and email : hfc@heavymetal.co.uk and beg them to sell you a copy.
Honey For Christ can count one more fan of their music. Fuck! This is heavy metal to
the bone. My congratulations and 1000 thanks for the headbanging they offered me.
SITE : http://www.honeyforchrist.co.uk
P.S. I can't resist to tell you that "The Heretic Hook" (the 3rd song) has a strong
Running Wild feeling (all hail the pirates!!).
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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SPLITDAWN
Promo 2002
Spiltdawn come from my home town Thessaloniki and to be honest it's been a while
since I had the chance to listen to soemthing so interesting and filled with energy that
could light up my reactions in no time. The demo is consisted of 2 songs "Absence" and
"Stand By Me" and they are both very good. The production is very good and clear
although we are delaing here with a demo. The guys play a mixture of Swedish death
metal with many thrash elements and some heavy riffs. Brutal thrashy vocals that
perfectly match with the music and the feelings and ideas that Splitdawn want to create
and a beautiful artwork, whose main colors are red and black, visualising this way their
passion, rage and anger. Great!
EMAIL: met@mailbox.gr
Christine Parastatidou
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PRIMEVAL MASS
Promo 2003
Recently I received some very interesting demos, as you can see from the reviews in
the demo section. These demos prove that the global underground metal scene is
"healthy" and has many interesting things to offer us in the near future. But enough
with this prologue and all those boring stuff and let's get straight to the point. The demo
of these Greek black metallers includes 2 high quality and full of inspiration songs.
Their main influences come from the "cold" Norwegian black metal scene, but they
don't hesitate to add in their songs melodies and some thrash and heavy metal
elements. Both songs are very good, but my favorite one is "Spectral Funeral Mist",
which in my humble opinion (or not to humble anyway :)) is a black metal hymn. In this
song the brutality of black metal meets the untamed energy of heavy metal (as it's
played by bands like Running Wild - thank you Captain Rolf!). I think the labels that
are interested in this genre should check them out, cause Primeval Mass know how to
play Black metal with no compromises. As for the rest of you send with your
compliments 2 Euros to the following address (so you can enjoy this demo): PRIMEVAL
MASS, TSAKALOF 58, 132 31 PETROUPOLI, ATHENS, GREECE or PRIMEVAL MASS, AG. IOANNOY 82, 132 31 PETROUPOLI, ATHENS, GREECE
P.S. The production is satisfactory!!!
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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IN VAIN
Letters From My Brother Cain
In Vain is the personal project of Panos Dimitriou, who is responsible for Denial Price
as well. Most of the times when we see someone in a band forming a project then
unfortunately we have to deal again with the same ideas and the artist doesn't have to
offer anything new. However, there are occasions like this one that we are lucky
enough to listen to something truly different! This is the second demo I get to listen
from them and what I've come to realize is that they get better and better with every
release. So, this one is more oriented in classic heavy metal forms with catchy riffs and
divine vocals! I can't point out any song in specific, because I will simply forget another
great song and this wouldn't be right! Anyway, I don't have anything more to add except
for the production which is poor and from time to time the sound gets "lost". These are
bands that should be discovered! CONTACT : DIMITRIOU PANOS, G. SEFERI 180 STR.,41223, LARISSA, GREECE
Christine Parastatidou
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DARK VISION
Black Knight
Dark Vision recently have gone through an almost complete line up change. So, the new
members make theirselves and their abilities known with this mini release that contains
3 songs from their album "Full Moon Shines" and a cover to AC/DC's "Hell's Bells".
I'll take things from the bottom to the top and say that the cover is very good and
interesting and I think that the use of keyboards couldn't be more suitable. It offers a
certain atmosphere to the song and with the addition of Nick's extreme death/black
vocals the song is a pure dynamite. I really enjoyed it. Now besides this as I told you
earlier the EP also contains 3 older Dark Vision songs "Black Knight", "Awakening
(Of A Dark Soul)" and "Full Moon Shines". Mark that except for "Black Knight" all
the other songs presented here are live editions and this makes things more interesting
cause a band's value is either proved whilst performing live or a bad appearance can
ruin the whole image. Dark Vision surely know what they are doing and with few
alterations within the songs, which I think now sound more brutal, prove me right once
again, cause I really feel that this is a band that can really DO something out there! The
songs are more aggressive and Dark Vision seem to be restless... The only negative
thing to be mentioned here is that the sound is a little dull and not clear enough. Support this effort and you won't regret!
Christine Parastatidou
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FRAIL ENTITY
"All Alone"
This is the first attempt and release for FRAIL ENTITY and I think it is quite
encouraging. The band tries to combine different influences in their music (metal and
non). You will have the opportunity to llisten, in their 2 compositions, to Thrash, Death,
Atmospheric and Progressive Metal mixed with oriental sounds ( in "Anatolia" ) and
electro music touches. The problem, which is more obvious in the song "Anatolia", is
that the ideas (they have) are not well connected, but sound like they are sewed up
together. There should be a more normal "passage" among their musical themes. The
second song, "all alone", is a very good composition which I really enjoyed listening.
The combination of male and female vocals it's very succesful. Sophia's vocals in some
parts reminded me of CRANBERRIES singer (sorry, but I don't remember her name).
If these guys continue working hard, it's sure taht they will manage to create their
personal sound and differ from most of the bands. I think that time and practise will give
them all they need to realise their "bold" dream. To make it more clear : support this
band cause I believe that they have future. The production of the album is satisfactory.
Their demo's prize is 4 Euros (plus the postal expences). CONTACT the band to the
follow address : Xatziioannou Aleksis, Parodos Kiprou 3, Xania, 73100, Greece and
EMAIL : frailentity@yahoo.gr
Nikos "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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AEONS CONFER
The Soul Of The Universe
Dark poetry, dark claustrophobic feelings are created with this release. Aeons Confer
declair that they play modern symphonic dark metal and I couldn't agree more with
them. What is there to be pointed out firstly? The majestic keyboards? The enchanting
melodies? The hellish and ferocious vocals? The high speed guitars and blastbeats?
And then we have this atmosphere created... Excellent! If you need a further clue then I
can tell you that they reminded me a bit of DIMMU BORGIR, EMPEROR, ARCTURUS, CRADLE OF FILTH...but they have lots of personality! They are AEONS CONFER...!!!
CONTACT: NILS WROBEL, HINDENBURGSTR. 159, 22297 HAMBURG,GERMANY.
EMAIL: nils@aeonsconfer.com
SITE: http://aoensconfer.com
Christine Parastatidou
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ADVENT
Valholl
In our days that most of the bands try to copy the latest trend and become famous as
fast as they can, still exist some musicians that really have the will to work hard. There
are bands that create their personal sound and open new paths for the heavy metal
music without the nedd to add in their sound non metal elements. How differently can I
describe ADVENT's music? Imagine a fine mixture, a perfect amalgam of classic
heavy, black and death metal with melodic atmospheric and epic parts. Their songs
managed to create strong images to my mind. Songs that carry something from the
"spirit" of the sea, sometimes calm and peacefull and then suddenly raging and
ferocious. It is very difficult to me to find similarities with other bands. So, the best you have to do is to buy this demo and try to find out by yourselfs. Finishing, I have to
notice that the cover is beautiful and very artistic. Also the production is very
professional. I wish them good luck and I am sure that in the future will give us even
better releases than this one. Conatct the band at : adv_ent@hotmail.com
WEBSITE : www.adventcomes.it
Nikos "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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137
Product Of The Environment
A brief but yet accurate description of 137's music would be BLACK SABBATH hire
Chris Barnes as the new band singer. Their compositions are mid tempo, they are so
slow that you feel like they surround you creeping slowly around you and suffocate you
whilst you sleep... Their combination of doom with death is amazing, the final result has
groove and it has a lot of rhythm and nerve and the production is as it should be. Apart
from these, the guitars are played by a woman, which is rare in the metal music. They
deserve your attention. Great! Contact :
Keith Baughman, Email - keith@onethirtyseven.net Phone - (585) 396-1846, Mailing
address: 137 c/o Keith Baughman, 6298 Goodale Rd.Canandaigua, NY 14424 USA
Christine Parastatidou
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BATTLE RAM
Demo
Before I start my review for this demo I have to say that reviews I read in many Greek
magazines regarding Italian bands really annoy me. Most of them start by saying
"though Italy has released many crap metal bands, lately..." and so on...Hope that most
of them write this kind of prologue by instict, because lately I have listened to many
good things from the Italian metal scene, which I consider to be one of the best among
the U.S. metal scene and a few others. Battle Ram come to support with this demo my
beliefs. Exellent epic metal influenced by big legends like OMEN, JAG PANZER,
JUDAS PRIEST, CIRITH UNGOL, AGENT STEEL, etc. They are a killer band in their live shows. As for that, simply ask some of the metalheads that were present on the 2nd of March in An club in Athens. A band that lives and breathes for performing live. Finally I have to say that the cover of the demo is excellent and very professional.Another great band from Italy has all the potentials to claim the epic metal throne. Check their site on: http://www.battleram.it
P.S.The CIRITH UNGOL cover is quite good, but can't reach the original one.
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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CELESTIAL SORROW
Despair Within Me
Regardless the title of this demo CD I have to say that these 5 gentlemen from Finland
have no reason to feel despair when it comes to their music. This is the 3rd demo for the
band, which was recorded just a month ago. The 5 songs contained here move in the
familiar Finnish melodic death metal, having a strong CHILDREN OF BODOM flavor.
The compositions are very intresting and will offer a real pleasure to those who like
heavy/power metal with extreme vocals and some death elements. Besides the strong
CHILDREN OF BODOM essence, they brought to my mind a little bit of EXCELSIS.
Don't hesitate and proceed by contacting them to the following address :MIKKO
KAHKONEN/CELESTIAL SORROW, MUSTIKKATIE 37, 88900 KUHMO,FINLAND or email : celestialsorrow@jippii.fi
Christine Parastatidou
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FACELESS GOD
De Occulta PHILOSOPHIA
Pure fuckin' darkness...Hell itself was unleashed from my stereo at the first hearing of
this excellent demo cd. The guys from Ptolemaida offer us pure black metal which is
similar to Immortal (their first three albums) and Marduk with some influences from
good old Mayhem (Euronymous R.I.P.). The production is good, but it could have been
better, especially in the drum section. If you are into the blasphemous, "hellish" black
metal, don't miss this demo.
P.S.To all the fans of Dimmu Borgir, Cradle Of Filth, etc. STAY AWAY!!! This is PURE
FUCKIN' BLACK METAL HOLOCAUST! HAIL!
PRICE: 6 Euro/$
CONTACT: KAPLANIDHS XRYSOSTOMOS, ERGATIKES KATOIKIES 15-24,50200, PTOLEMAIDA, GREECE
Giannis "The Pagan Winter" Giannakakis
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POWERCAGE
Exclusive Pre Disc
This is not a complete release, but a pre disc containing only three songs. Powercage
deliver us a well performed american like heavy/power. I listened to the cd again and
again but I was unable to get a crystal clear idea of their influences. I still can't, cause I am afraid I'll mislead you into wrong conclusions. However, if you want to get a hint, then you can perfectly listen to them along with Steel Prophet, Crimson Glory
("Transendence" period) and first period Fates Warning. They remind me a lot of
things but yet when it comes to describe it..nothing comes out...What does this mean?
That their influences are piped through their personal ideas, creating their own sound.
Despite that you can listen to some hard rock riffs every now and then and they also
have an exceptional vocalist. I don't think there's anything more left to be said. Just
listen to them! CONTACT : C/o Yngve M. Jacobsen, Berhusveien 93, 4635 Kr.Sand -
Norway or Email:: yjmetal@frisurf.no
Christine Parastatidou
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STENDOR
King Of Winter
Some years ago to speak about Greek heavy, power or epic metal bands it was
something like a bad joke. However, these past few years some bright exceptions exist.
Lately the good releases from the Greek metal bands are getting more and more. The
Greek musicians show a need to work in a more professional way. Stendor are one of
those bands that can give us a good work in the future and you can understand all these
by listening to their "King Of Winter" demo which has a duration around 63 minutes
(?!?!?!). Stendor plays epic/power metal mainly influenced by bands like MANOWAR,
JACOB'S DREAM and ICED EARTH. Their singer in some parts brought to my mind
Morby from DOMINE.I find their compositions quite interesting, but if I want to be
sincere with them, I have to say that they have to work more if they want to win the
attention of the metal labels. First of all the singer must work a little bit with his voice especially when he sings on high climax. They must also improve their production,
especially on the guitars, because sometimes it's really hard to listen to them. The
demo includes 5 cover songs as bonus recorded from a live show of Stendor. The demo
costs 3 Euro and I think that it worths to be bought. Don't forget that the total running
time is 63 minutes. Contact the band to the following address:
STENDOR, V. PAPADOPOYLOS, KARAISKAKI 53, 35100 LAMIA, GREECE
OR EMAIL: stendor01@hotmail.com
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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CONSTANTINOPOLIS
The Sudden Death
Hey! Those Turkish guys make the arabic smelling death metal! They have united the
deadly tunes of the east with the brutal death metal and they call themselves:
Constantinopolis! What a mixture! Consisting of three teenagers, their performance is
magnificent compared to their age. This (The Sudden Death) is the first record of them
and like all bands, they are in the amateur period right now. That is to state the usual
and natural mistakes of every demo produced, no matter what band. But their
resolution and energy will lead them to what they aim, later. Let's talk about the
content. The demo called "The Sudden Death", consists of 8 songs, including the intro
and outro. The insight is about history, and stories from the past. The pictures in the
front and the back cover are all historical ones. The conquer of Constantinopolis is the
main theme. And the music full of arabic tunes are united with this theme. They are one
of the few bands in this genre and they are worth listening, some songs are really
fantastic!
EMAIL: constantin1453@yahoo.com is the email you can contact them and order the demo.
Soner "Sony" Turkolmez
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TORMENTION
A Display Of Chaos
Tormention is a Maryland based quartet that describe their efforts "as a gathering of
dedicated musicians with a serious attitude and love for music". For them music is a
way of life, a religion...I think that kind of statements reveal many things for these
guys. They reveal that music for them is not just a hobby, a job or an "easy" way to get
fame and money. They are dedicated in music. But which genre is their most
preferable? Hmmm...Not just one I'd say, but rather a combination. A mixture of thrash
and death metal mainly, enriched with some classic metal elements. They will bring to
your minds bands like SLAYER, SEPULTURA (old), PANTERA, DEATH and they
even have some BLACK SABBATH riffs. Weird? If you doubt my words, then I
challenge and recommned you at the same time to listen to this demo...
CONTACT: TORMENTION, 2635 LESLIE ROAD, MT. AIRY, MD 21771-8821,U.S.A.
SITE: http://www.tormention.net
Christine Parastatidou
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SPIRITUAL WINTERMOON
Nightfall In The Ancient Woods
They come from Greece. They come from the underground scenes. Crawling in depths
below the surface and revealing themselves only to few...They believe in the old ways of
black metal, when it was only an underground music (or should I better say ideology?)
shared by few people. They believe in this rule and follow it. Their whole attitude is
weird, strange and wrapped in mysticism, so they sheldom allow to people to look
behind their mystic, magical veil. Now, regarding their music...It's hard, raw and dirty
black metal that reminded me of the primitive Rotting Christ. In between the songs you
can also listen to some lovely atmospheric melodies. The only thing I think they should
correct is the production. I don't know if they did it on purpose (sounds like it's coming
from the bottom of a well), but it'd be better if the sound was a little clearer. I don't have more to say. The choice is yours...
CONTACT: C/O NOSFERIOUS, IPSILANTOY 223A, PETROUPOLI 13231, ATHENS, GREECE.
Christine Parastatidou
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DEVOURED
Necrobscenity
They must be sick and perverted! At least their music is extreme. These psycho-guys
play grindish death metal in the veins of Cannibal Corpse, Morbid Angel and Vader
undoubtly. Their lyrics are also as extreme as their music is. I thik that something good
is going on and developing in Belgium cause this last year I heard of many interesting
new bands music in the black-death-grind genre. Their underground scene is getting
stronger and stronger day by day and this is something very good and really promising!
The attempth these guys do is also very promising and highly recommended to those
who are obsessed with the gore. However, I have one objection! I didn't like the
artwork. It's just too much for me. Too extreme, too disgusting, too gore...How can I put
it? They might like it, I suppose there are quite many out there that will like it but I
prefer it when one bands provokes me with their music and lyrics and not with
images...Not my treat. Despite that I don't have anything bad to point out. They walk in
the right way.
CONTACT: DEVOURED, 15 RUE BAILLERIE 4530 VIEUX-WALEFFE, BELGIUM
EMAIL: devoured@caramail.com
Christine Parastatidou
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SERIAL BUTCHER
Serial Butcher
I think that their name can work as an indicator to their musical style as well. I don't
think that anyone who will listen to their monicker will ever think that these guys play
happy" power metal or progressive a la Dream Theater. No, no!Of course not! These
guys play extreme, gore, grinding death metal in the veins of the masters of this genre
Cannibal Corpse and Napalm Death. They are good, they have groove and rhythm and
I don't think tehy'll dissapoint any of the fans of this genre. Give them a chance, cause
what I've learned these past 1.5 year that I have this ezine is that the most precious
albums can be found in the underground and by supporting these acts we support heavy
metal itself.
CONTACT: KURT BOGAERT, MEULESTEEDSESTEENWEG 280, 9000 GENT, BELGIUM.
SITE: http://www.serialbutcher.com
EMAIL: webmaster@serialbutcher.com
Christine Parastatidou
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ARSIS
Arsis
What? European oriented black/death from the U.S.? Yes! Don't be shocked it's true
and it's VERY good! these two guys offer us a technical thrashy black/death. I think
that they managed to find the best only elements from death and black metal and
combine them in the best opssible way. It's furious, it's intense, but it has melody and
rhythm. I don't think I have much to say! I received theis cd today and till now I've
listened to it a lot of times and I can't stop pushing play again and again. It's a pity that the cd is only containing 8 songs. Their whole music is covered with a strong, epic
feeling and I also have to say here that I liked the vocals very much. Their music is the
way, is the vehicle, which leads you to fantasy worlds, to see and take part in epic
battles, to see the rise and fall of this world and mankind. They reminded me of
CHILDREN OF BODOM's epic feeling and the rough HAGGARD elements and
DRAK TRANQUILLITY. Oh yes, they have their fury and anger. Favorite songs?
ALL! Ooopss...The cd just finished, so I push play again and sink into their world once
again!!!Delirium! Insanity!Masterpiece!
If they won't become famous, then who should? Their cd is a MUST!
CONTACT: ARSIS, 1125 WINDER'S LANE, YORKTOWN VA, 23692, U.S.A.
SITE: http://worshipdepraved.com
http://mp3.com/Arsis
Christine Parastatidou
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GUARDIAN FORCE
Land Of Magic
The members of this band have an age around 18-19 and their 2 track demo really
impressed me, because they are very good musicians and also because I found their
compositions extremely interesting. The first track "Land Of Magic" starts with a
melody a la Helloween on keyboards and it develops to a technical power metal song
influenced by Iron Maiden, Royal Hunt and Symphony X. The second song "Voice Of
The Wind" is a straighter heavy metal song. A song written for headbanging, having
also some epic moments. The singer is exceptional and gives a personal touch to the
compositions. Guardian Force is a very talented and promising young band. The
underground continues giving birth to good metal bands and this means only one thing:
we witness the second rise of heavy metal and this time will be forever. At least I hope
so... CONTACT : Lari Sorvo/Guardian Force, Pursimiehenkatou 21 A 7, Helsinki 00150, Finland OR BY EMAIL :lari.sorvo@kolumbus.fi
SITE : http://gf.rocks.it
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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THE KRUSHERS
Megaloi Theoi
I am very happy when I see a band improve in every demo they release. The Krushers
have indeed improved in comparison with their previous demo, where they were playing
something between black/thrash and grindcore. Now, in their new demo they seem to
know more what they really want to do and this is nothing else than play black/thrash as
it was played back in the 80's. Actually their music is closer to thrash metal as it was
played by bands like KREATOR, HELLBASTARD, SODOM and DESTRUCTION,also having some black metal parts and black metal vocals. The things that they have to imrpove once again are the production (though it matches very good with their sound) and the quality of the cover of the demo tape (sorry but the painting and the track titlescan't be clearly seen). I think that this release addresses to metalheads that like to listen to brutal and dirty thrash metal as it was played by the above mentioned bands (in their early days of course). People that only look for clean and shinny productions, keep way! This is not for you. Anyway, the song "Hydrogen Robots" is a great song for headbanging. If you think that The Krushers play the music that you like,
CONTACT them: THE KRUSHERS C/O, FERI GIUSEPPE, VIA S. SOFIA 4, 92100,AGRIGENTO, ITALY.
EMAIL: pgedifr@tin.it
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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INCRESCENT
Blossoms Of Aridlands
(Paradox records)
Increscent is a three member band coming to us from Turkey,a country that has proved
to be a great force in the undrground extreme metal scene. The guys here play melodic
black metal with keyboards having a front role and great female vocals. They have very
nice ideas and their whole attempt brought to my mind (especially their work on
keyboards) ANGIZIA, which is an amazing band. This demo is consisted of 2 songs and
an intro and it is really interesting and won't tire you at all.
EMAIL: increscent@hotmail.com
Christine Parastatidou
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COURTYARD
Refusal
The mixture of two genres is in my opinion something hard and difficult to be
succeeded. The reason? Cause you must know and understand where the divind line
exists in order your release to sound interesting and not just a mixture of different hard
to be combined elements. I also think that these guys know the recipy and in fact they
know it very well. It might not be original to mix death with black metal but they
manage to do it in a way that won't tire you or disappoint you a bit. they have the ability
to attract listeners from the black and from the death metal branch and unite them. The
music is close to swedish death and the vocals will remind you very much Dani Filth's
screams and howls.Give them a chance...don't refuse them!
CONTACT: 6470, 2 SOK. AKSOY APT. NO:3 D:13 YALI MAH., 35601 ATAKENT,KARSIYAKA, IZMIR, TURKEY
EMAIL: comablitz@hotmail.com
SITE: http://courtyard.cjb.net
Christine Parastatidou
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CADAVEROUS
Hide In Details
Turkey these past few years socked me by the amount of great bands and even greater
releases that offers us. They have a strong underground scene, especially in the
extreme metal genre. So, once again cadaverous come to prove all of us, who say that
the beauty of music is hidden in the underground, right. They sound close to the sweidhs
death metal or melodic death metal if you prefer to name it this way, sounding really
close to the enormous AT THE GATES. Releases like this make me really happy,
offering me great pleasure and joy and mercilles headbanging.
SITE: www.cadaverous.cjb.net
EMAIL: cadaverous@hotmail.com
Christine Parastatidou
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INFINITY MINUS ONE
Tales From The Mobius Strip
(mp3.com)
Infinity Minus One is a strange name for a metal band, don't you think? Their music,
however, is even stranger. They play progressive metal, but not in the usual, ordinary
way. They are not trying to copy the big names of this genre, but they try to create their
personal sound. From the first moment that you'll listen to them, you'll understand that
these guys try to leave their print-mark to this music. I am sure that they will manage to
do so. Their main influence is RUSH and some other progressive rock and hard rock
bands of the 70's, but as I said before they are not copying them. Their influences work
like a base on which they build and develop their personal musical style. A band that
can make the difference in the progressive metal scene. This demo is a diamond for the
fans of this branch.
CONTACT: INFINITY MINUS ONE, 77 PRINCETON STREET SUITE #2, EAST BOSTON, MA. 02128, USA
EMAIL: infinityminusone@bigfoot.com
SITE: http://www.infinityminusone.com
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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DIVINE RAPTURE
Promo Sample
Ok! As you can see from the title what I am holding here is just a 4 track sample.
Before proceeding with this review I'd like to give you an advise. Whatever you do,
don't play this cd in low volume. So, put the volume up and enjoy the melodies mixed
with the blast beats and enjoy the brutality of the vocals. The melodies, I'd say come
from the so famous Swedish death metal which is perfectly mixed with the very well
known to all death metallers american death. If you ask me, these guys have a lot to
say. Give them the chance...I am waiting anxiously for their full length release.
Blast this full volume!!!
CONTACT: DIVINE RAPTURE, P.O. BOX 159, CHESTER HEIGHTS PA, 19017,USA
EMAIL: info@divinerapture.net
Christine Parastatidou
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BLUEBERRYHILL
Clandestine
Finally, a band from Finland that can make the difference. These past few years Finland
was offering us mainly STRATOVARIUS clones and the whole thing was becoming
very boring and predictable to me. Until, Blueberryhill came. They play heavy metal
inspired from both sides of Atlantic ocean (I mean U.S.A. and Europe). Their music is
basically inspired by IRON MAIDEN and MANOWAR. All the songs are good, but
the apotheosis is the song "The Free Are Alive". An excellent epic song that brings to
mind SKYCLAD, RUNNING WILD, IRON MAIDEN, MANOWAR, KNIGHT ERRANT and ELVENKING. At last a band from Finland that plays music straight from the heart and doesn't care if this sells many albums in their country. The production is excellent and very professional. If you want to listen to something different and original, dare and buy this demo. The future belongs to them, if they won't do any compromises with their music. That's heavy fucking metal guys and girls.
CONTACT: MIKA MUSTIKKAMAKI, KEPONKATU 9 B 10, 60100 SEINAJOKI,FINLAND
EMAIL: mika@bb-hill.com
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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ANHEAD
E=MC3
WOW!!! What is this????? Do you believe that you know what progressive music
really means? Do you consider youselves to be open minded and you like modern
elements? Then Anhead is a MUST HAVE definitely. This is your chance to exlpore
something new, a rising force at its birth. They have the potential to rule...to rule? Huh?
Which scene though? This is a question that I can't answer. It's good to be in my
position and discover so many amazing bands but on the other hand some bands give
you a hard time when it comes to put down in words what they made you feel and when
you try to discribe their music. This is progressive. Anhead ARE progressive (not in the
Dream Theater or Fates Warning direction). They have modern elements a la
RAMMSTEIN in their music, but they are not like them. They have brutal vocals
mixed with etherial voices but they are not a typical atmospheric/gothic band. They
have elements that remind me the contemprorary Rotting Christ, but they have nothing
to do with them as well. See my point? They might remind you some things but they are
nothing like them. This is something new, that you haven't listened to before. Plus they
sing in 4 languages. If you want to do something good to yourselves, then buy this
release...
CONTACT: ROBERT HALES, KRIZOVA 45, 15000, PRAHA 5, CZECH REPUBLIC
EMAIL: anhead@centrum.cz
Christine Parastatidou
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BLIND SIGHT
Purple Curtain
One thing I've discovered lately is that Italy has a great underground metal scene. The
last months I've received great albums from unsigned Italian bands. BLIND SIGHT
are not an exception to this rule. Their music is epic heavy metal and will bring to your
minds the great WARLORD, SAVATAGE, RAINBOW (the DIO period) and VIRGIN
STEELE in the symphonic parts they have. Don't be afraid they have nothing to do with
RHAPSODY. They also use some violins which give a dark and melancholic
atmosphere to the whole music. The vocals are also great and match perfectly with the
music. The only thing that I didn't like is the average sound production, cause it's not
fair to their music. Also I would suggest them to use a real drummer on their next demo
and not a drum machine. Finally, I liked a lot their song "In The Theatre", which is a
very weird and experimental song and it's seperated in 4 parts. Here we have a very
good demo with many beautiful ideas, but with a poor sound.
CONTACT: D' ANDRIA IVANO, C_50 UNIONE SOVIETICA, 87, 10134 TORINO,ITALY.
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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ALLINVAIN
The Backside Of Humanity
(SPREADIT AGENCY)
What do we have here? Aaahhhh....Swedish death metal or if you prefer melodic death.
My favorite! Melodic death with a variety of vocals from the typical death ones to
blackish howls. I really liked the vocals a lot! They differ from the common death metal
ones. They have the extremity of Dani Filth combined with a music that follows the path
paved by IN FLAMES and AT THE GATES, enriched with some melodic
breakthroughs. Do you believe that metal can't be harmonically combined with classic
music? If not, listen to "" and you'll be proved WRONG! Ok, ok guys! You got me
now...When will you release your next cd? I am already waiting for it...
CONTACT:Andrea La Piccirella Via Notari, 81 41100 Modena Italy
EMAIL: piccy.hansen@tiscali.it
Christine Parastatidou
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GOTHA
Take Your Soul
(SPREADIT AGENCY)
Many are those who claim that thrash metal is dead and the old days of glory won't
return. However, there are some bands that prove us wrong. There are bands that
prove us that we should never be absolute in our beliefs. So, no Gotha don't play gothic
metal or anything in familiar with this genre. Their three songs are great samples of
steady, rhythmic thrash metal and will definitely lead you to headbanging and moshing.
CONTACT: Fabrizio “tamas” Giosue, Fraz. Serradica 75, 60040 Fabriano (AN), Italy
EMAIL: f.tamas@libero.it
Christine Parastatidou
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HYPNOTHETICALL
In Need Of A God?
(SPREADIT AGENCY)
Hypnoheticall use mainly as a form for their expression melody. Their compositions are
based on the creation of melodic themes and atmospheric parts. Classic and acoustic
guitars mixed with electric, changing rhythms and a capable singer are soe of the main
things I can point out. I found really interesting the use of brutal vocals in some parts. I found them to be amazing and I'd advise them to use them more in their next release.
So, all of you out there interested in atmospheric and progressive music, check them out.
CONTACT: hypnotheticall@hotmail.com
Christine Parastatidou
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RECTO RECTORS
Fight For Your Grind
(SPREADIT AGENCY)
As you can see from the title, this band plays grindcore. The thing I find extremely
original to these guys is how they manage to combine the gore thematology with huge
amounts of humour. Except for the grind parts, their muic has some punk rock elements
as well. I think that this is a release that the grindcore listeners would love to listen to, but also I'd say that this is a release that most of the metalheads would enjoy to listen cause of the great, endless sense of humour they have. Songs like "Lord Of The Shit" is an epic anthem :))) and it will touch your deepest cores, cause everyone in his life finds himself in such a difficult situation like the one the song describes. I also liked a lot their over songs with the belchings. WARNING: If you want to enjoy this demo, bare in mind that it's fun and don't expect something serious.
CONTACT: Bovio Matteo, v. Cameri 13, 28043, Bellinzago (NO), Italy
EMAIL: recto_rectors@yahoo.it
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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THE LAST WINTER
Ira
(SPREADIT AGENCY)
I was always "afraid" of long songs. Most of the times they prove to be boring from a
point on and I don't see why some bands keep on composing so big songs. Usually I
think that these musical attempts lose their spirit and are difficult to be reproduced and
grip you tightly till the end. Now, I am proved wrong and I don't really mind. On the
contrary, I earned from this, not only cause IRA made me realise that a long song can
be interesting, but also because their mixture of black with melodic death and extreme
blast beats (in some parts) led my spirit to worlds of bliss and hatred, of happiness and
disaster, it led me to dark worlds and forbidden emotions...Black metal can often be
redeeming...
CONTACT: Enrico Di Lorenzo, Via Fontanarosa n.4, 00177 Roma, Italy
EMAIL: Thelastwinter@hotmail.com
Christine Parastatidou
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EVENT HORIZON
From Beginning...To End
(Spreadit Agency)
I never was a real progressive metal fan. However, there are results like this one,
offered by Event Horizon that can't leave me in apathy. Their musical expression is not
100% progressive. It has the main structures of this musical idiom mixed with classic
heavy power elements and riffs, enriching their sound and making it more stable,
interesting and rhythmic. The singer is undoublty doing an amazing work and it always
is a real pleasure to me to have the chance to listen to demo's of new bands that have
something original and not dull and boring to offer us. Proceed...
CONTACT: www.eventhorizonband.com
Christine Parastatidou
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MINDWILD
Mindwild Spirit
(Spreadit Agency)
Ok, sure...You need a review of course here...What if I can't give you one? To write a
review you have to specify the musical identity of a band...Ha ha ha...Well, these guys
have surely got wild minds as their band name indicates... I could say that mainly they
play thrash with some punk elements. However, there are songs that you'll listen to
them playing gind/death or even songs where they add doom elements...Weird?
Maybe...But true...How many songs does this cd contain? 69!!!! No, no there are not
that many songs...Some are, some are not...There are many bonuses, like you have
never heard from another band till now...
CONTACT: mindwild@genie.it
Christine Parastatidou
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BEJELIT
Bones And Evil
There are times like this one in specific that you feel very proud for the music you listen
to. There are albums, like this one, that become a standard for the other bands. Honestly, I am very delighted to discover BEJELIT (I wish I had a label of my own to sign them). Although they come from Italy, they are far away from the trend of symphonic power metal and they choose to involve with a harder branch. That of power/thrash that is directly inspired from the 80's. You will find influences here varying from SAVAGE GRACE ("The Haunter Of The Dark"), LIEGE LORD ("Bloodsign"), OMEN and HELLSTAR. Add to all of the above and some DOMINE and RUNNING WILD (first period) touches and you hold in your hands an amazing power/speed release. Your heads will hurt from the endless headbanging. The singer has a GREAT voice. You have to get this demo, cause if you don't, you'll be very sorry for the rest of Your lives. Personally I listen to them continuously. After all, I think we should trust Italians, when they don't stick onto trends. I thank them for this release. There is hope after all!!!
CONTACT: BEJELIT "NORTHERN BLADE", C/O SANDRO CAPONE, VIA VITTORIO VENETO 59, 28041 ARONA (NO), ITALY
EMAIL: bejelit83@libero.it
SITE: http://bejelit.has.it
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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WITHIN ANOTHER
Within Another
My personal opinion for Within Another is that the success is more than certain for
them. They play progressive metal, or I'd name it technical power metal with some
modern elements. They are trying to build their own sound and surely they do an
amazing job cause we are talking about terrific players. They'll bring to your minds
CONCEPTION, LETHAL ("Your Favorite God" period) and FATES WARNING with
some more aggressive elements that will remind you of PANTERA and bands of the
melodic death metal branch. The progressive metallers will discover a new diamond.
However, even people that are not used to listening to progressive metal, will be able to
listen to them and I guarantee many moments of endless headbanging!?!?! A band
consisted of amazing musicians who never forget that they play heavy metal. And this is
what I look for in the progressive branch. Enjoy these 4 diamonds...
SITE: http://www.withinanother.com
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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DREAM MASTER
Dream Master
Dream Master come from Argentina and they play classic heavy metal. Their big love
is profound and it's no other than IRON MAIDEN. And they are right, cause they offer
us 5 songs of well worked-performed heavy metal that you can listen very pleasantly.
It's a fact that the more you listen to this demo the more things you'll find that you'll
like in there each time. Dream Master walk in the correct way and can offer excitement
to the fans of the classic metal sound. What makes me very happy is that the
underground gives very good music samples. Do you think that it's time to happen a big
change? Let's cross our fingers and hope...
SITE: http://www.dreammaster.com.ar
EMAIL: dreammastermetal@yahoo.com.ar
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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DOL AMMAD
Electronica-Art-Metal
Some bands are destined to make the difference. DOL AMMAD and consequently
Thanasis "Lightbridge" are something special for the Greek and not only metal scene.
What do they play? According to Thanasis, "electronica art metal". Why not? The
metal character of this release is more than obvious and enriched with electronic
elements. Add to all of the above that the keyboards in many parts bring to mind artists
like Jean Michel Jarre or Vangelis. These artists are listed in their influences among
THERION, HAGGARD and AYREON mainly cause of their "space" atmosphere.
Ending, I have to mention here that in the vocal part there is an orchestra, "The Europa
Choir" making this demo sound even greater.
DOL AMMAD. Don't forget this name, cause you will surely here it again...
NOT FOR SALE!
EMAIL: thanasis@dolammad.com
John "Dutch" Volkas
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ART OF DARKNESS
Mind Suicide
These five guys from Italy offer us a 5 song demo cd of professional quality. Where
should I start from and where should I end? From the amazing artwork and layout of the
cd? From the crystal clear heavy production? I think I should start from their music,
which is a mix of Swedish death metal with some more brutal, american like death metal
elements. Or if you prefer it in a few words I'd say they play melodic death metal with
some brutal bursting outs. The whole result is more than satisfying to my ears and if I
want to be more specific it's a real pleasure to me playing the cd again and again and
again! All death metallers gather here to listen to a really interesting effort.
CONTACT: art_of_darkness@hotmail.com
WEBSITE: www.artofdarkness.too.it
Christine Parastatidou
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AEOLIAN FIRE
Aeolian Fire
The Greek black metal scene is quite famous and popular I think in Europe. Many
Greek bands have become famous abroad and released some quality albums. In a few
words what I want to say is that the Greek extreme metal scene is very good and
original. As repsresentatives of this scene Aeolian Fire too, managed to release a worth
to be mentioned demo, which is constituted by 2 songs and 2 intros. Musically I'd say
that their influences derive from the Swedish black metal. In their songs they manage to
combine the slow epic elements indicating a BATHORY influence and the blast beats
indicating a close to mARDUK sound. However, they ahve also their own elements and
some very nice technical solos. The only negative thing, ruining a little bit this whole
good icon is the production and also the cover artwork, which could be better. I am more
than sure that Aeolian Fire can please those who love the simple,classic and in some
parts epic black metal.
CONTACT: AeolianFire@hotmail.com
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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DENIM & LEATHER
Too Damn Loud!
Denim & Leather don't hide their love for SAXON and especially for the
N.W.O.B.H.M. movement. This demo will travel you back to this great period of heavy
metal. Denim & Leather respect this movement a lot and have succeeded to reproduce
it with their songs without being cheap immitators. All the songs are great. the only
thing that needs improvement is the production. A must have demo for all the
N.W.O.B.H.M. lovers. I also recommend it to the young and new fans of heavy metal
as an introduction to the roots of our favorite music. I have to congratulate Denim &
Leather for such an interesting and different release (we have to admit it, there are
many bands that play in the N.W.O.B.H.M. style).
PRICE: 7$
CONTACT: denimleather@yahoo.com
WEBPAGE: http://www.denimandleather.cjb.net
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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ALEPH
Promo 2002
I will start this review with a statement. ALEPH's music is strange, weird, unusual... I
don't think you had the chance to listen to something like that many times till now.
Should I categorize it? Maybe...But where? Do they play doom? Do they play thrash or
maybe progressive? Something among all those. That's where the truth is and add to
the above mentioned the great atmospheres. This is surely an album that you must
listen again and again, exploring it little by little. Will we ever get to the bottom of what they are trying to do? I doubt it. The sure thing is that these guys play interesting,
inspired and original music. I have to congratulate them on that!
CONTACT: BONACORSI GIORGIO, VIA DEL TORCHIO 25, 24048 TREVOLIO,ITALY
TEL.: +39 035 692819
EMAIL: eattherich2001@yahoo.it
Christine Parastatidou
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ARCHAEUS
The Annihil Chapter : A Source Of Fire
It's amazing how the heavy metal scene of a country (France here in particular) can
blossom rapidly and offer promising bands in all the metal branches. France is mostly
known for its extreme bands. So, here come Archaeus with their self - financed 3rd
recording but 2nd release to prove us right once again. The cd contains 7 songs of black
metal sounding close to the Norwegian scene. However, this is not enough for the
band...rhythms varying from blastbeats to doom and so on, heavy dark atmospheres
gripping you tightly, melodies, tormented vocals, progressive rhythms and technical
playing. Yes! I think the above mentioned things describe Archaeus's music pretty well.
In a few words I'd characterize them as progressive technical black metal. The only
thing I didn't like was the production, which gave me the sense that the music came
from a huge distance, like it came from the bottom of a well - or maybe a crypt...??? I
think that black metallers will be more than satisfied.
PRICE : 8 Euros
EMAIL : angelofdeath_rob@yahoo.fr
CONTACT: ARCHAEUS, c/o KOPEC ROBERT, 4 RUE DE MAGENTA - 67610 LA WANTZENAU, FRANCE
Christine Parastatidou
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SHADEWORKS
Sooty Limbs
SHADEWORKS are a strange band. They are the kind of band that if you try to place
them in a specific genre, then you have being unjust to them and there's the risk of
being exposed. They move somewhere in bewteen atmospheric metal / rock and
progressive metal. They brought to my mind a weird mixture of FIELDS OF THE
NEPHILIM, SISTERS OF MERCY and THE GATHERING. On the other hand they
have elements that make them sound like CIRRHA NIVA (especially the theatrical
atmosphere that characterizes their music) and PAIN OF SALVATION (especially
"Perfect Element Part I"). Their is very poetical and artistical. They seek for listeners
that take heavy metal music not as a simple way of stressing out. Melancholy is the
main sentiment of their sound. It is a very good work leaving too many promises for the
future. I want to believe that there are many metalheads out there who will be able to
value this excellent work.
CONTACT: NICOLAS ARNAUD, 22 RUE RENIERS, 1090 JETTE, BELGIUM
EMAIL : anicolas777@lycos.com
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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PHOEBE'S PHOBIA
After 2 -3 months, I received 3 new songs from PHOEBE'S PHOBIA. They had some
very good ideas in their first 2 demos, but they couldn't connect them properly, making
the whole result sounding a little "strange". Their new songs however, have a better
structure. Nice riffs, correctly combined and connected to each other. The death/thrash
guitars are combined with melodic parts in a very nice way. Surely, PHOEBE'S
PHOBIA have an original sound. Once again,though, the bad thing is their poor
production. I'd advice my good friend Kirk Houghton to find 2 more good musicians
(bassist and drummer), get in a studio and record their songs on a more professional
level. It's truly a pitty some good and interesting compositions to be hiden by a bad
sound quality. PHOEBE'S PHOBIA have something to tell us, but they MUST work on
more professional status.
CONTACT : PHOEBE'S PHOBIA, 1 Langdale Grove, Whittle-Le-Woods, Chorley,
Lancs, England PR6 7NU
EMAIL: deathtoamericanfalsemetal@hotmail.com
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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POSEIDON
In Metal - The Return
Poseidon here they have sent me 3 new songs of theirs. Whilst listening to both their
releases (the full lebgth album and this demo) I had no doubt that Poseidon are an
interesting power metal band.. In this demo their songs have a more straight heavy
metal structure and they have left behind the progressive elements of their previous
album. Main influence of the band is IRON MAIDEN, trying at the same time to create
their own personal sound. their compositions impressed me once again and especially
their song "Lifeless", which is a wonderful song with a strong Maiden feeling. I can't
wait to listen to their new full length album.
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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DRAGSTER
NEW TIMES
Another good Thrash Metal release is this one by Brazilians, DRAGSTER. Their music is technical Thrash metal influenced by the bay area style. I was suprised by their release that has nothing to be jealous of an official release. They have the ability to create a good name in this branch. All of you have nothing else to do than buy this CD and enjoy 20 minutes of quality THRASH METAL!!! Contact : dragster@dragstermetal.com.br
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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SHADOWLORD
Hail & Thunder
The first thing that came to my mind when I first listened to this album is "Imagine if this album was completed for what a great metal album we'd speak of". You see this demo I have is not mastered yet. However, I will speak clearly and I have one thing to say, Shadowlord have the potential to become one of the biggest heavy metal bands. They have their own sound. With this I mean that their influences are clear, but from that point on they enrich them with their personal sound. Their RUNNING WILD and RIOT influences are more than obvious (listen to "Triumph"). They create unique songs of classic-epic heavy metal. Personally I sensed a VIRGIN STEELE feeling. The only thing that needs to be a little taken care of is the vocals in the fast parts of the songs, cause in the melodic he is much better. Don't lose the chance to contact with one of the most interesting new bands from South Africa to the following email : herman5@telkomsa.net
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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MEMORAIN
Digital Crimes
I think that the ascenting course of the Greek metal scene is a common belief of most of the Greek metallers and all the others that had the chance to listen to some bands from here. MEMORAIN follow this rule. They play melodic speed metal that will please all the fans of the genre. This demo contains two very good songs of quality speed metal, having its roots to METALLICA ("Black Album" period) and ICED EARTH ("Dark Saga" era). They are very good and the only question is how far they wanna go. CONTACT: info@memorain.com
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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LUMSK
Asmund Fregdegjaevar
Lumsk are from Scandinavia and I think that their music is close to the genre we call Viking metal. Their lyrics talk about the traditions of their ancestors and the legends they have. The thing that makes them differ from other bands of the same genre is the variety and the imagination that their compositions have. They are influenced by many bands and they manage to show those influences in a very personal way. Their songs are a mix of traditional folk muic that meets MANOWAR, MITHOTYN, FALCONER, BATHORY, EINHERJER and they also have some elements of Wagner's music. Very interesting music that travels you to mythological ages. The whole result becomes even better, cause of the use of female vocals and violins. They also sing in their native language. My favorite song of this demo is "I Trollehender". Ending, I have to say that the production of the demo is very professional and helps the band to show its talent. CONTACT: LUMSK, P.O. BOX 2549, 7414 TRONDHEIM EMAIL: bandmail@lumsk.com
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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OBDUKTION
The Day Of Massacre
(METALFIGHTERS DISTRO)
bduktion is a new band from Greece specializing its sound int he extreme metal scene and being more eaxct and precise I have to say that they play death metal. A really interesting death metal having elements from the melodic death but also having some roots in the american death as well. Their ideas in guitar are really marvellous and you
can listen to some classic heavy riffs in their music. The production is good and I liked their cover artwork as well. They sound promising so the only thing I have to say is that I am waiting anxiously for their full length work. Contact them! CONTACT:OBDUKTION, C/O GEORGE BITZOS, B. PALEOLOGOU 20, 18120 KORYDALLOS, ATHENS, GREECE, EMAIL:ob1@otenet.gr
Christine Parastatidou
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MYSTERY BLUE
DEMO
When in our days we talk about a metal band with female vocalist, our mind goes to atmospheric metal bands like THE GATHERING and WITHIN TEMPTATION. ...But MYSTERY BLUE come straight from the early 80's, when the female singers were really metal "sirens" with nothing to envy from the male vocalists. With their new demo, that includes 3 songs MYSTERY BLUE deliver us 80's HEAVY METAL. This kind of music that really "speaks" to my heart. The most amazing is that they manage to keep the 80's atmosphere to their sound. Indeed a great work, mostly influenced by bands like JUDAS PRIEST, SAXON, ACCEPT and ZED YAGO. NATHALIE is a great singer. 80's freaks like me and ZED YAGO fans this demo is A MUST HAVE for you, don't you even dare to ignore it. I am waiting anxiously for the full album of them,,, CONTACT : MYSTERY BLUE, C/O FRENZY PHILIPPON 158, RUE HUBEL - 67590 OHLUNGEN, FRANCE, EMAIL : Hmysteryblue@aol.com
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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MANDRAKE ROOTS
A Hollow Plain
Maturity is not always a privilege of the age. In the music at least. Mandrake are around 20 and they've chosen to play a metal that we haven't listened for a long time now. Their sound wil bring to your minds the era of late 70s - early 80s, when heavy metal had a strong hard rock flavor. Their influences are bands like LED ZEPPELIN, DEEP PURPLE, BLACK SABBATH and N.W.O.B.H.M. A 3 song demo cd that has managed to capture the magic of that era. You only have to push the play button, close your eys and you will instuntly be transported in the late 70s. I have to admit that their music got my attention and interest from the first second and really surprised me. Mandrake Roots is a band with great potentials and we all must support them. Bands like this one give a quality to the Greek metal scene. the production of the demo is very good and clear. Their singer is very good and has a very characteristic voice. the song "Blind" will definitely remind you of the Deep Purple's song "Soldier Of Fortune". I don't know what else to write, in order to convince you to support this band. Ah, only that they give the demo for free, so contact them to the following email to send you a copy : themandrake@hotmail.com
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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ULTIMATIUM
End Of Darkness
I had the chance to talk a lot with Matti (leader and keyboardist of this project) and I know his big love for STRATOVARIUS. To tell you the truth this scared me a little, because I thought that Ultimatium will be another tribute band to Stratovarius. But Matti it's a true musician, using his influences as a "transport" to create his own personal sound. In this demo you can listen to 5 tracks of melodic power metal (influenced of course by Stratovarius, Nightwish and in some parts by Dio). It is a work that I really enjoyed listening. The only thing that must be improved is the sound of the production. Matti wanted to demonstrate with this demo his musical and composing abilities, thus he asked the help of musicians from other bands. I think that he did a really good job. Check it out! Closing, I want to tell him that I am waiting anxiously for his new epic metal project. I really like the concept of snow, wilderness, etc... CONTACT : ultimatium@jippii.fi
SITE : http://www.mp3.com/ultimatium1
Nick "William_Kidd" Parastatidis
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SINOCENCE
Thank God For Satan
Lately we had the chance as a webzine to meet with the underground scene of Northern Ireland and listen to a variety of bands and sounds. What about them now? Honestly there is no category where I could place them. Their music is weird and completely psycho but great! This is the closest idea I can give you. There is no way I can name any influences, cause there are none that can suit their style. They mix brutal with mellow, extreme with classic, new wave and electro elements with old school touches. They are VERY interesting and I dare you to listen to them and whoever is able to find anything that is relative to this please email me! You can get the cd by sending 5.5 pounds to the following address (postage included). Enjoy the ride...
CONTACT: SINOCENCE, 18 AVA AVENUE, BELFAST, BT7 3BN, NORTHERN IRELAND
EMAIL: info@sinocence.com
SITE: http://www.sinocence.com
Christine Parastatidou
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CALM SITE
Steelpit
This mini cd from Finland is an excellent piece of work. A kind of work that I didn't have the chance to listen to something really great lately. The guys break the "rules"that almost all bands over there sound typical and so muh alik and create a musical identity close to the huge and one and only SENTENCED of the "Amok" and "Down"
period with some more classic heavy metal grooves. The sound is very good and the production is clear and words have no place here, but action. WHAT? What do I advice you to do? Get in touch with these guys and don't leave this opportunity pass by you and miss those great songs!
CONTACT: CALMSITE C/O, JUKKA PENTTINEN, PAIVOLANTIE 27 A 7, 11120 RMK, FINLAND
EMAIL: calmsite@hotmail.com
SITE: http://listen.to/calmsite
Christine Parastatidou
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MAMA KIN
Three Is Company
It's been a while since I last heard a good album with a real rock 'n' roll attitude and generally I have noticed that such releases are evry rare and that's a pity. Of course and I listen to extreme metal, but I never deny a good hard rock release with much glam and pose in it! Mama Kin defying all the laws of Swedish metal music industry don't play death or black metal and they don't play power metal too. Their music is dirty, sleazy and it has the true rock 'n' roll attitude and image. It's the kind of music that derives from a mixture of MOTLEY CRUE and GUNS 'N' ROSES with MOTORHEAD's filthy sound and a "punk-ish" approach. The guy's image will also remind you the 80's look and their moto is "Chapagne, chicks and R 'N' Roll". Need I say more? Don't think so... All in all this is a release smelling poser hard rock from lies and miles away...YEAH!!!!
EMAIL: the_kin@hotmail.com
SITE:http://www.mamakin.tk
Christine Parastatidou