TOP TEN ALBUMS OF 2015

What a year for heavy metal! So many albums were released this year and putting just 10 on this list was the hardest thing but here it is my list of the ten best album of 2015!

TOP 10 ALBUMS OF 2015

1.Spillage- Spillage

-And my number one pick is the debut record from Heavy Metal group Spillage from Chicago, Illinois. This record kicked my ass around the world and back when I first heard it. Its raw yet nice production is very pleasant on the ears and Tony Spillmans ability to write these insanely catchy riffs and Chris Martins superb heavy drumming is just what made it my number one album of the year!

2.Night Demon- Curse OF The Damned

-The debut record from these NWOBHM worshipers out of California and damn I was hooked on this record after the first song. These guys just know how to craft amazing sounding “true heavy metal” tunes it’s a great record from a new band to remind us how great 1980-83 was. Also, the production is something I’ll brag about all day.

3.Venomous Maximus-FireWalker

-The second release from these guys and easily their best. It combines melodies from bands like Maiden and the Heaviness of Sabbath for a record that is a force to be reckoned with.

4.Electric Revolution-Character Is power

-This band from Kenosha I have dug for a while and I recently just got to hear their first full length all the way through and wow it exceeded all my expectations. Check em out their 70’s inspired groovy rock is all anyone could ask for.

5.Chris Holmes-Shitting Bricks

-one of my favorite guitarists of all time is back with a dirty as hell, gritty rock n roll release that may not break new bounds but it is damn fun and very spinal tap at points. Either way I love it and so should any old school wasp fan.

6.Pentagram-Curious Volume

-The legendary doom group is back with a new album well newish as it features a lot of older written songs but it is still a great, heavy throwback to the 70s and Bobby Liebling still has a voice that is as heavy and haunting as ever.

7.W.A.S.P-Golgotha

-WASP impressed me with this one. It still has a lot of catchiness to it and reminds me a lot of Headless Children which isn’t a bad thing.

8.Uncle Acid: Night Creeper

-The fourth release from the Psych/Doom quartet and it is still as haunting and heavy as ever. Truly one of the best bands in the rising retro doom genre

9. Motorhead: Bad Magic

-This album another straight great release from the loudest band in the land. Even through their troubles they still manage to crank out great tunes and still show that just because you age doesn’t mean you need to slow down.

10. Iron Maiden: Book Of Souls

-This album really made my list for the fact that Iron Maiden still know what they were doing, even if I wasn’t totally sold on it. There are some great songs on this album and plus its freakin Iron Maiden.

Album Review-Ghost: Meliora

Meliora is the third album by Swedish gothic rock/metal band Ghost and was released on August 21^st, 2015. My history with Ghost goes way back to when their first album hit. I like many others was taken away by how much it sounded like a mercyful fate album with a mellower singer. They also really capitalized on their live stage show and still do as well. Their second album dropped soon after and it had a lot more 60s pop elements that kind of alienated me a bit but the album still had some great songs. Aster their covers e.p I kind of got away from the Ghost craze as they kind of went to a more gothic overtone that I didn’t find enjoyable as much. However when this album dropped I figured I have to give it a try and maybe I’ll be a fan once more.

Track Rundown

1.Spirit- Opening with this very gothic cathedral sound with a sci fi overtone, Ghost open with a very melodic rock sounding feel. Honestly this opener feels really boring it doesn’t feel like it has a lot of power behind it especially when the last two albums had such powerful openers. The vocals feel like they are trying to be too eerie at times where they feel too buried in the mix. An okay opener, but skippable to me.

2.From the Pinnacle to the Pit- I like the bass that opens this song and the eerie guitar melodies as well. The only problem I have is Papa Emeritus’ vocals just don’t really do it for me and I think it is because I have grown tired of the eerie vocal style. The chorus is pretty good but again feels like it lacks some kind of real punch to it. An improvement over the first song yes but lets see what else there is on this album.

3.Cirice- I like the acoustic approach in this track more with the piano behind it in the beginning. I feel this song has more of the appeal that the first album had with more powerful riffing to it as well. But the vocals just annoy me Its just how they are sung.  It just doesn’t feel like it fits to me it feels like it’s trying to be two things at once but it doesn’t work in my opinion. A good track in the Instrumental department.

4.Spoksonat- I like this short piece its actually my favorite thing on the album for how ominous it feels and how melodic it is.

5.He Is- I like this intro it is very catchy and atmospheric and the vocals are very well done here as well. They feel more strong than I feel they did before. This song is great because it fits Ghost’s style the most on this album I feel it is just beautifully done.

6.Mummy Dust- This song immediately turns back into heavy territory and I like the bend in the main riff it feels really strong catchy to me. The vocals try a whispering feel to them and It works great as well. This is the best heavy track on the album in my opinion.

7.Majesty- At the beginning of this song I thought I was listening to Deep Purple with such a strong organ presence it’s pretty kickass sounding. It’s a pretty ok rock song I just can’t really tell where it is going at points like in the chorus it doesn’t quite feel like it got there.

8.Devil Church- A very church choir piece that is very short and I like it but it feels like a filler more than a full track.

9.Absolution- I like the Sabbath-ish riff here and again it reminds me of their earlier material without trying to add more to it. It isn’t very memorable but it is a pretty okay song it’s got some good beats and is pretty catchy during the verses.

10.Deus In Absentia- This is a very pop proggish sounding rock song with a lot of overlapping melody’s and different sounds. It doesn’t have a lot of guitar presents and the keys take more of an up-front approach to it. It’s an okay closer it does some neat things but doesn’t do much for me.

Overall, I give this album a 5.5 out of 10. Really I am torn on this record because I like maybe half of it. I just don’t feel like it is really a “heavy metal” album like everyone keeps classifying it as. It is more of a dark gothic prog rock album with some hints of metal influences. It has some very cool things going for it but I feel like the band I really got into in the beginning is something quite different and it doesn’t do it for me. If you are a fan, then don’t listen to me and keep being a fan they aren’t popular for nothing.

Album review-W.A.S.P: Golgotha

Golgotha is the fifteenth studio record by American Heavy Metal band W.A.S.P and was released on October 2^nd, 2015. Now to be clear I am a huge WASP fan (see my review of Chris Holmes new album) and Blackie is one of those front-men that I admire a lot for their writing and stage presence. Now all drama aside, before buying this album the newest WASP record I owned was Helldorado (Which is a guilty pleasure of mine) so I am very out of date with how the last few records have progressed but I do know how Blackie has become more religiously conscious and I am always afraid that it can sometimes overshadow the music. However, with no experience except maybe a few past songs, will I enjoy this record as much as say Inside the Electric Circus? Lets find out!

Track Rundown

1.Scream- This song starts out with a very melodic riff and then Blackie comes in and I really have to say his voice has lost nothing in the last 30 years. I really think his voice is the highlight on the whole album actually and I like Doug’s little guitar fills all over this song too. The chorus is very reminiscent of “Crazy” from the previous album but I think this track is better represented and has more power to it. The solo is pretty good and full of life as well but it is kind of missing a heaviness that used to be my favorite point of WASP and while I still like a lot of the riffs it feels a bit buried in the mix and has some issues like I had with Book Of Souls. But overall, I think this is a great opening song its super powerful and shows that there is still something left in this band

2.Last Runaway- This song would definitely be a radio song it is just that melodic. It isn’t necessarily heavy in the guitar or even vocals but more in the drums I mean the kick drum really pops with the very clicky bass provided by Mike Duda who is a killer bass player. It still has a very killer chorus kind of like Wild Child but not as heavy. Still a great song and shows me personally a very melodic side I don’t think I have ever felt like I have heard from the band.

3.Shotgun- I really like the finger picking in the beginning it reminds me a lot of 95 Nasty which is one of my favorite WASP songs of all time and I think this is my favorite tune on the album. It has that total rock n roll feel that albums like Inside The Electric Circus focused so hard on. I love Blackies voice on this track too It is just still so damn catchy. The best song yet by far.

4.Miss You- This is a 100% unapologetic ballad, no way around it. It is in a way very cardboard and predictable yet still pretty powerful. It is an odd kind of stop in the album because it is the least powerful song here but it isn’t horrible it just doesn’t fit with a lot of the songs on this album.

5.Fallen Under- As it starts very slow and atmospheric, I really do like the synths that accommodate the backround and it feels very full as it builds with Blackie preaching to “save me” and it is pretty strong and I love the mid-paced chorus it is just so damn powerful. The whole song has a very building feel to it and always pays off to a total fist pumping chorus. The solo at the end is pretty decent as well.

6.Slaves Of The New World Order- This song is very melodic as it begins once again and then it goes into full heavy metal glory and it honestly could be one of the most well written songs that have from this band since Crimson Idol. It has very good musicianship and Blackies lyrics are very very well written as well. It is a song that begs for a live crowd as well. This song also has my favorite solo as well.  The only thing is I would’ve that this would have been the ideal song to end the album on but hey it’s on here so I can be damn happy about that.

7.Eyes Of My Maker- This song has a structure similar to Fallen Under as it is very mid paced and it has a pretty good chorus but is probably my least favorite song because it sounds a bit too much like one of my favorites on the album and follows one of I think the best written WASP songs to date. Blackie still has some excellent lyrics here however.

8.Hero Of The World- This song starts with song very beautiful acoustics with the echoing drums in the back and really builds to the actual meat in the song but revisits the acoustics once again and then into a pretty decent solo. It’s a pretty good song it has some good atmosphere.

9.Golgotha- And finally we have the title track, and I must say it is pretty epic to say the least. I love the build with Blackie really belting it out. Some people think that Blackie Lawless singing how he needs Jesus isn’t metal but It works great and makes for a very catchy song I think would be a great song for a live audience. Even though is very mid paced for a closer, I feel it gets the atmosphere and catch so good that is worth the trip. A great closer to a pretty good album.

Overall, I give this album a solid 8 out of 10. Even though some of my favorite members and biggest influences are no longer with the band, Blackie manages to write some great very powerful songs that show how WASP are no LA glam band but are and always have been a straight Heavy Metal band. Even though the production had sort of the same problem as Iron Maidens Book Of Souls and the solos didn’t shock me as much, the songs still drag me in because they are fresh to me and not super drawn out which is why this is a pretty good listen for any WASP fan. Long live W.A.S.P \m/

Album Review-Spillage:Spillage

Spillage is the self-titled debut record from Chicago based Hard Rock/Heavy Metal group Spillage and was released on June 30^th, 2015. Now I have heard of this band for about two years but never really focused a lot on them for the reason that I didn’t have a lot of material to work with besides some live videos which showed me they are a very cool live act. However, I wanted to see what a full length from these guys would sound like and if it really would a defying record that I could listening to until it was too worn out. Well I finally have a copy in my hands so let’s turn this baby up and see what is in store for us.

Track Rundown

1.The Darkness- The opening track starts with this ominous organ opening that I really like because it feels like just such a build up to what is to come and not to mention there is some cool Deep Purple vibes as well. Right away there are some crushing riffs and I really admire the guitar tones exhibited here as well they really have a unique NWOBHM-ish sound to them. I really like the vocals as well because they feel doomish in parts and then go for this Halford like soaring style which I love. I love the cut before the solo as well it feels unexpected and makes it exciting as well. Fantastic fucking opening track.

2.Live In Fear- This track has more of that bluesier edge in its riffing yet is still heavy and groovy. The solo is one of my favorites on the album as well. Just a really catchy tune and another must listen on this record.

3.The Road- Chris Martine’s drum fill in the beginning I have to just say is really awesome he has a lot of solid grooves in his playing. The main riff to this song is very vintage Priest sounding but is still full of originality. Tony Spillman in particular really rips up the solo in this tune and its just one of those solo’s that totally sticks with me til no end. Everything in this song and even the slow exit of this song is just great. Definitely my favorite song on the album.

4.Call It Freedom-The groovy bass intro is really cool and the chugging guitars really build up to the main riff that has a thrashy feel to it but it isn’t thrashy at all and still retains that bluesy groove. The chorus is pretty catchy as well in this tune it is different I can’t really explain it but it sounds good and I like it haha. Another killer tune!

5.In Hell- This song has more of that straight Stoner Rock feel to it and the vocals are a bit lower than they were the past songs with a bit more of grit in them. It is heavy as hell and is another tune on the album that I can really get behind. There is a bit of double bass here as well which I don’t recall hearing before which still sounds incredibly heavy. I also love the keys in this tune as well it creates a cool evil atmosphere.

6.Insomnia- The opening has a Sabbath-ish feel to it(more of the Dio era than anything). The riffing has these cool melodic breaks in it that im a total sucker for. It has a really catchy chorus as well and is a cool tune all around. I also like when it picks up as well it really adds to the tune and I didn’t see it coming when I first gave it a listen.

7.Devil Woman- This song has been covered by a couple notable artists including the legendary Riot from New York City. However this version is my favorite because this band plays it in not a super heavy way but it has kind of a more pop kind of sound with it especially with the organ taking over more than the guitars in the verses. I feel that Spillage has captured this song perfectly.

8.Land Of Opportunity- The opening always reminds me of U2 for some reason im not sure but this tune is another awesome rocker. Tony really knows how to write catchy tunes as this is another killer one and I love love the verses but the chorus with the (I can feel it!) thrown in it really is awesome.

9.We Are- This tune is a bit more mid paced and has  catchy nasty riff that carries it with the organ clicking in and out, it is really cool. A pretty god foot tapping tune to end the album with and I can’t complain at all.

Overall, I give this album a 9.7 out of 10. I was really blown away how much I was going to love this record. To me, this is a modern hard rock/heavy metal masterpiece because it blends some really cool sounds together and is easily my record of the year, no denying it. Seriously though, pick this record up, support this band cause I sure as hell will. Horns up for Spillage! \m/

Album Review-Iron Maiden: The Book Of Souls

The Book Of Souls is the sixteenth studio record by English Heavy Metal band Iron Maiden and was released on September 4^th, 2015. Now anyone that is even remotely into Heavy Metal knows who Iron Maiden is. They have made some of the most popular records of the genre as a whole and are major influences even still today. Their last record The Final Frontier was released five years ago and was pretty good but felt a bit stale in a few parts. Two huge world tours followed and then this record was announced just as fast as it came out. This record also clocks in at 92 minutes easily being their longest yet. However, does this mean just a long boring album full of proggy classic Metal or a new milestone for Maiden? Let’s find out!

Track Rundown

1.If Eternity Should Fail- the beginning of this song really sets up quite an epic atmosphere and I really like that. However, as soon as the song starts it kind of trudges through and I may be the only one that feels that way but it just feels like the band is just going through the motions, it does pick up a little but I don’t love it as an opening track. The chorus however I find pretty catchy.

2.Speed Of Light- The first single of the album, this song sounds like typical Iron Maiden which isn’t bad and it would probably make a pretty cool live track on the next tour. The only problem that I start to see is the production feels a bit muddy. This is a problem mainly with the bass levels counter acting with the rhythm levels and it feels it pushes too much bass.

3.The Great Unknown- I really like the intro of this song because it sets up a great mood. The main section is pretty good as well and Bruces lyrics through the whole album are still ace and I also love the chorus on this song more than the first two as well as it has a lot of melody within it.

4. The Red And The Black- This is by far my favorite song on the album for its sheer epic feel and the tight catchy writing around it. The mix still irks me in spots but on this track it really does not bother me that much. The only flaw I have here is it is 13 minutes long and has that epic feeling of a true album closer, however, its placed almost right in the middle actually a bit too early. However this song is amazing to me and definitely a big highlight.

5.When The River Runs Deep- This song picks up the speed a bit more and has a Somewhere In Time feel to it which I like, there are also some interesting riff choices in parts as well. I kind of get lost in the solo at points because it actually runs for quite long in this track and I get kind of blindsided.

6.The Book Of Souls- This is my least favorite song on the album because it is just too trudgy for me and feels predictable by Maidens standards to me as well, it just feels boring. The beginning I really like however but I usually skip this track it doesn’t do much for me.

DISC TWO

7.Death Or Glory- This feels like it should have been the album opener, for me anyways. It is just such an epic song a la The Trooper. The verses are extremely catchy as is the chorus. Another standout song.

8. Shadows of The Valley- This songs opening sounds just like Wasted Years, however, the rest of the track takes a life of its own thankfully and is pretty catchy and another song I really like. I also love the chants placed at the end as well.

9.Tears Of  A Clown- This is a different sounding track for sure and I really like the lyrical content as well. This song feels a bit boring to me unfortunately and the production also kind of hurts this song in parts as well. A so so song.

10.The Man Of Sorrows- This is another so so song for me as well it kind of just feels again like the band are going through motions and isn’t really a track to keep me interested long enough and the soloing feels a bit flat as well but I do like the use of keyboards in parts.

11.Empire Of The Clouds- This last track is pretty good musically wise. For the record it is eighteen freaking minutes long and has a lot of meat and really stretches beyond being a heavy metal song and I applaud it for that. My favorite part is the lyrics because of the rich tragic story the song tells. This being Iron Maidens longest song ever, it feels like a track or two could’ve been dropped for this behemoth.

Overall, I give this album a 6 out of 10. Really this album for me felt all over the place and didn’t feel like it flowed as good I had hoped. There are some real great songs on here as well which is why it gets such a high rating but I felt that there were points that were too long and drawn out too much and the production hindered certain parts from really shining to me. It is an okay effort but not without its problems. Also, sorry this review took so long as I had to listen to all 92 minutes to get the full effect and in this world that’s not easy to do.

Show Review- ACDC at Wrigley Field

On Tuesday, September 15^th 2015, ACDC played a sold out show at Wrigley Field in Chicago Illinois. To me, this was a show that was long overdue. In 2009, I was a sophomore in high school and ACDC came through with perhaps their biggest tour ever…and I missed it. I had no money at the time and it was a week night. Now flash forward six years later and they have a new album and they were coming back to Chicago. It was a week night but I wasn’t taking any chances and it was unfortunate that Malcolm and Phil were not there but I was still hopeful.

Wrigley Field as a venue was a place you either loved or hated there is no in between. I really like the field as a whole being one of if not the oldest ball field in America with its shades of America way back when. I have heard that the sound was garbage but its ACDC they are a loud band I didn’t think I had to worry. Opening act Vintage Trouble really were great with their style of Mississippi styled 50s funk rock. Their singer had a very strong James Brown feel and he really got down with the crowd even crowd surfing toward the end of their set. As the sun came down, a helicopter ominously flew above head and the camera posts were all set. The news was that Wrigley was being shot for the DVD of the tour which got me super excited. As the intro on stage began you could feel the anticipation of the crowd. Then as the meteor hit the ground and the stage exploded the band came out in fine form opening with the strong “Rock Or Bust”. The stage production for this tour was more toward the lighting than the sheer scope of the stage although the rustic shed look was pretty killer.

As for our band, Stevie Young carried himself greatly all the way to his foot tapping like a metronome. He swung a bit looser than Mal but still had that precise picking that his uncle had. He even brought out Malcolm’s signature beatup gretsch as well. Chris Slade was amazing and the guy is almost 70 years old, yet he plays like a 20 year old drummer with extreme ADD and he still is my favorite drummer ACDC ever had. Cliff is still a rock solid bass player and his backups mesh with Stevies pretty well
even though Stevies voice is a bit lower than Mals. Brian Johnson still has that voice and I really cannot believe how he can still carry himself. Angus who is now the ringleader still packs a punch live. He wore his red school boy uniform and although he didn’t do his strip this tour, he still had some shining moments like in Sin City when he literally tried to choke his SG with his tie or his badass no holds barred solo in Let There Be Rock. I was afraid with Wrigley in such a public place that they would have to que down the fireworks and not be able to sound as loud as normal. Well they really let loose and their finally was huge as well. Also, a fun little fact was that Angus brought out his black SG with the white pickguard that he recorded back in black with for the last two songs. So after the smoke cleared I realized that ACDC, although at this point they have nothing to prove, can still dish out the greatest show you will ever see. Seriously if anyone is reading this review, go see ACDC, you will not be disappointed.

Album Review- Motorhead: Bad Magic

Bad Magic is the 22^nd studio album by British Hard Rock/ Heavy Metal band Motorhead and was released on August 28^th, 2015. Now I am no stranger to Motorhead and in fact, they are one of my favorite bands of all time. Lemmy is the main reason I play bass guitar today and ive always looked at him as one of the most badass musical figures ever. Unfortunately lately his health has been showing some negative signs and it has made fans like me worried that this might be his last outing. However, does this album lack the power of every other album? Let’s find out!

Opening with “Victory Or Die” This album has a better and more balls out opening than “Aftershock” did and the production feels more balanced either. This track and “Thunder And Lightning” show that Motorhead has literally lost none of its lethal speed and easily could fit around on the Inferno album. Lemmys voice overall has very little change to it. It has more of a groggy feel but its still great and projects greatly. Songs like “Fire Storm Hotel” and “The Devil” have feels from the Orgasmatron record as well. “Shoot Out All Of Your Lights” has some fantastic drum work from Mikkey Dee as well and shows that he as well has lost none of his chops. Phil Campbell still plays as good as when he joined in ’84. Lemmys lyrics I think really shine on this record as they do on every other one. Tracks like “Electricity” shows this as being simple but still pretty catchy. "Till The End" really is the most calm track here and it kicks ass and has a really atmospheric feel to it especially in Lemmys voice. Perhaps the most interesting piece from this record is the cover of “Sympathy For The Devil”. I really really like this cover and like all the covers Motorhead have done, they really make it their own. Lemmys voice really fits these lyrics more than Mic Jagger ever did as well (when I hear Lemmy snarl “Please to meet you, hope you guess my name” It still gets me.).

Overall, I give this record a solid 8.5 out of 10. It’s Motorhead doing what they do best and I even think this record focuses more on more punk and speed elements than blues even though their blues roots still show. So many good tracks that try some new rhythm styles and leaves you satisfied. Overall, if you know Motorhead, you’ll like this record.

Album Review- Chris Holmes:Shitting Bricks

Shitting Bricks is the sophomore album by former W.A.S.P guitarist Chris Holmes and was released on May 2^nd 2015. My history with Chris goes back to when I first started my obsession with Hard Rock and Heavy Metal. When I first heard the first Wasp album, I flipped mainly because how killer the guitars sounded. Chris and Randy Piper were seriously a force to be reckoned with but by their third album it was all Chris and nothing but that Jackson ripping it up. He has always been one of my favorite guitarists and biggest inspirations to pick up the instrument as well. About a year ago I found out that he had recorded a solo album entitled “Nothing To Lose” It caught me by surprise at first but the more I listened the more I got that it was supposed to be a fun dingy sounding rock record and tracks like “Way To Be” and “Loser” were catchy rocking tracks as the instrumentals were actually pretty killer as well. But I wanted something more, a more balls out record with the production that puts it just over the top. Well I have a copy (which I had signed) with me now so let’s delve into this album head first!

Track Rundown

1.Intro- The album begins with this simple building piano piece  with Chris fiddling with his guitar in the back. Soon enough the whole band comes in with a slow starting jam and I have to say the production has a bigger feel to it already. This intro is at a pretty good time at just two minutes of anticipation and I really think leads well into the next track.

2.Shitting Bricks-HOLY HELL THIS SONG IS KILLER! Seriously right away the drums are kicking and Chris really spits out lyrics with a vengeance. I have to say his singing has improved a lot since the last record. This song is classic Heavy Metal all the way to the chorus and the frantic solo with the police sirens in the back it is just so 80’s and I love it. The guitars already sound super heavy and since Chris has been using the same beat up guitars it makes sense. I love how it really explodes at the end as well. Killer opening really.

3.Nevermind- This a full instrumental and features no electric guitar. It’s actually a pretty good piece and also feels a bit psychedelic as well. The running piano at times is really cool as well and I think it shows Chris doesn’t only write straight up rock songs, he can write some atmospheric stuff. The only gripe I have with this is I wish it was placed a bit further into the record.

4.Get With It- This one also comes out swinging right away with some heavy riffing. I really like the verses as well I feel Chris’s grungy voice goes with the super dirty guitar chugging. The pre chorus has some catchy and at times funny lyrics as well. This is one of my favorites on the album as well. I really like the heavy melodic part in the middle of the solo (which kicks ass as well) that leads back into the killer chorus. Another killer song.

5.Born Work Die- This song has a bluesier feel to it with calm acoustic guitars in the beginning with Chris’s raspy vocals talking about the real shit you got to deal with and I dig it. The verses with the whole band chiming in are pretty catchy as well as the chorus. The solo is really harmonic and works as well but I really like the dirty acoustic solo toward the end. Another one of my favorite tunes on this album!

6.Let It Roar- The first single off the album. It opens with a really heavy guitar riff and the song has an overall real just heavy groove to it. I like that Chris’ lyrics are so profoundly simple I mean it’s basically just about rocking out and I love how 80’s they are as well. The solo just rips as well and is one of the best on the album. Another home run for me.

7.TMF- If you don’t know, this stands for two faced motherfucker. This song has blended Electric and acoustic guitars into it and it’s a pretty good laid out rock track. I also have to mention there is soloing literally all over this song as well and its pretty killer to see the Mean Man just ripping it out and taking no prisoners. Another great great song!!!

8.Long Gone- Another really soft song and it is also really atmospheric right from the start, but around the middle mark, it picks up into an instrumental jam. I like this one a bit more than “Nevermind” because it has more twists in it.

9.In Your Mouth- This song has some really heavy riffs in it but the lyrics are just pure spinal tap I swear. It is just pure Steel Panther-ish that I listen and just kind of laugh at it. I tend to skip this track because it is just so hilarious that it is kind of ridiculous. Im sure he meant for this song to be non-serious funny as hell cock rock and I wouldn’t expect anything else from a guitarist who lived nothing but excess.

10.502- I like this track a lot and it really is just a straightforward rocker and the chorus is pretty catchy as it is simple as well. Chris really knows just how to make the most badass guitar solos even this late in the game. Killer track.

11.Don’t Care-This song has that dirty country feel all over it and Chris;’ voice I think fits it very well. Its got some nice harmonies within it as well. I love the riff as well it kind of has that Sabbath tinge to it. I forgot to mention how good the drummer is all over this record with some excellent very tight fills in all of places. Pretty good song near the end of the record.

12.Vegas Nightmare- The dirty acoustic riff at the beginning I really dig, and boom it just explodes into a killer headbanging tune. I think overall this song is pretty good for a closing track it just straight up jams in the dirtiest way. The lyrics are very acdc-ish and I like the trailer trash and white trash repeating lines its hilarious and funny but still rocks! Chris really doesn’t let loose on his soloing here at all as it is almost heard literally through the whole almost eight minute song. It fades out the same way with the band ust jamming their asses off.

Overall, I give this album 1n 8.2 out of 10. Despite some tracks that I tend to overlook, this album has some really kickass tunes that I love. It really is an improvement over his first album and its great to see he got back up, got sober and is just jamming Heavy Metal again. He actually has his own band appropriately named “Mean Man” and they are gigging now across seas in France. Im sure hoping eventually he brings it to the states because I would love to see the show. Rock on Chris Holmes you are still a Wild Child! \m/

                                                                   Signed album!

Album Review- Pentagram: Curious Volume

Curious Volume is the ninth record by legendary American Doom Metal band Pentagram and is out on August 28^th 2015. Before I get into the record, I just want to share my history with this band. When I first discovered Pentagram, the first song I heard was “Dying World” and my love for them went haywire, they are essentially Americas answer to Black Sabbath and definitely have always shown their true blues roots as well. Bobby Liebling is a trooper seriously, he literally looked death in the face and came back stronger than ever. However, does this record stand up and face the hype created ever since they released the comeback “Last Rites”? Let’s find out!

Track Rundown

1.Lay Down and Die- Opening with a pounding guitar with Bobby spitting out lyrics with that signature screech in his voice. I love the ascending riff during the verses and the chorus is a total crusher, this song reminds me a bit of the Relentless record as well. Love Victors solo here as well it’s got a good groove to it. It’s actually a pretty simple track but it totally rules, end of story.

2.The Tempter Push- This tune has more of that fuzzy bluesy feel to it especially with the main riff. I really like the effect on Bobbys vocals as well it gives a real vintage feel. I swear you would think he was in his twenties again with how strong he is singing these songs! I love his croon during the verses it just sounds so badass. The solo has that trademark doom feel to it as well. Another hard hitter also reminds me of the last Blue Cheer record “What Doesn’t Kill You” ever recorded.

3.Dead Bury Dead- This tune has more of that traditional slow brooding Doom sound to it and Bobbys vocals in parts sound like harmonies I have never heard him hit before which is really nice to hear yet it seems very subtle. The solo is awesome as well it just has that killer groove to it.

4.Earth Flight- A Pentagram album isn’t a Pentagram album without a rendition of the early 70s demos and here we have finally one of my favorite Pentagram tracks done and one very well. You’d think nearly 40 years later it would sound flat or would have no power but holy hell it sounds so freaking heavy. This is how that tune was meant to be heard. Easily a major highlight for making this track sound so fresh. I love the chorus vox in the backround right before the end as well pretty cool!

5.Walk Alone- This tune has a very 70s riff to it almost kind of psychedelic feeling as well. I really like simple riff that have so much feeling in them like this one does. It is a very simple tune but still very heavy. It’s Pentagram just doing their thing.

6.Curious Volume- The opening is very interesting it is Doomy but not in the typical way it has an interesting riff with it is hard to explain but it sounds fresh. I really like Lieblings held back bluesy vocal take here. It picks up a bit more as it goes on. It is a very good track and I especially love when the solo kicks in as well. It is doomy as hell and that’s the way I like it.

7.Misunderstood- This song actually has a punky feel to it which is an interesting transition from the slower tunes before this. I think this is my favorite track on the record and I love Bobby vocals I mean he’s just spitting right at you and it is absolutely killer. The solo totally rocks as well it totally has an acdc feel to it.

8.Close The Casket- This tune retains that groove that Pentagram is known for and still sounds as fresh as ever. Again, it has a very bluesy feel to it. It has a couple of little twists in it that I appreciate as it gives a reason to keep listening to the song. Good track.

9.Sufferin’- The beginning sounds like fi you slowed down a High On Fire track and this song as the track before this have more of a rock friendly kind of feel to them than a Doom metal feel and to me I find that pretty interesting. It picks up more at the end with a killer solo and ends pretty solid as well.

10.The Devil’s Playground- This is by far the doomiest song on the record. It is the sludgiest by far and Bobbys vocals are at their heaviest sounding here as well. There is a slow transition in the middle that I really like and again it is something that I have never heard from Pentagram. This is one of my favorite songs on the album and definitely a high point.

11.Because I made It- This song sounds just like a track of the Last Daze Here compilation in fact it is! It really has the sound the band had at that point. I really think this is what Pentagram fans really think as the band coming full circle and Bobby finally has reached his dream of rockstardom by rerecording this track. This song is a fantastic way to end the album. It just ends the whole thing in such an epic way.

Overall. I give this record a 9.2 out of 10. It is so great to see probably the most important Doom Metal band besides Black Sabbath to come back with a record that is so strong it surpasses Last Rites in just about every way. Yes Bobby you have finally made it and this record proves the talent to the whole group that is Pentagram!

Concert Review: The Rockstar Mayhem Festival 2015

Ahhh it’s that time of the year again! The Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival has rolled into Tinley Park yet again for its 8^th year in a row. However, this year it is a bit different. The side stages have shrunk from two stages plus the main stage to only on side stage and the main stage. This was the year everyone was thinking was going to be the end of Mayhem due to how much it has shrunk. But being there was a whole other story…

Beginning of the day unfortunately I didn’t arrive until around 4 o clock and missed really the only two bands I was interested in at the Victory Records stage. Luckily I met up with a friend who was there for the whole day and said that Code Orange put on an excellent set which I wasn’t surprised about and Sister Sin who are a killer and I mean freaking killer classic sounding heavy metal act really nailed it as well. Thy Art Is Murder was the first band I saw take on the side stage and they really had the audience going as did Whitechapel after them. I and my girlfriend navigated through the crowd just to see what was going on around the place (which I remind you it was hotter than hell that day as well). The tents were very scarce since the last Mayhem show I went to which was when Rob Zombie and Five Finger Death Punch headlined. But anyway, after getting a bunch of free stuff (A Mayhem tradition) and buying some awesome King Diamond merch, it was time to head down to the main stage.

MAIN STAGE

The Devil Wears Prada

Once we got to our seats which was the closest I have ever been to the stage at this venue, We saw our opening act for this year. Now anyone that knows me even remotely knows I am not huge into screaming or metalcore or much of that nature. I do, however, appreciate that these guys gave it their all. Now this is a band that seems more of a club band that get really up close and personal with the crowd which is why I feel they would be better suited on the Victory Records stage. The sound was also just. THE. WORST. It was just way to bass driven all I could hear and feel way too much was drums and bass with the occasional scream, but oh well the lower on the bill the less the sound guy has to care right?

HellYeah

The first band on the main stage that I was kind of stoked to see. It was cool to see Vinnie Paul of Pantera playing drums even though it was to some songs I only partially knew. I think these guys gave a good performance even though their guitarist Tom Maxwell had a broken leg and had to sit through the performance. The band was full of energy as well and they really ripped through a good chunk of the Blood For Blood record and a few older tunes. Good old Texas style metal but the only complaint again was the shitty sound, which worried me, I was really hoping the last two acts would have sound down to a point…

King Diamond

As Hellyeahs set was torn down, the most epic set next to Iron Maidens stage was revealed. A giant two story piece with a cathedral backdrop and inverted crosses and a large glowing red pentagram. This only meant one thing, King Diamond was ready to give a show I won’t soon forget. To me, it was on par to seeing a band like Maiden or Metallica or any legendary metal group. It was also possibly the only time King Diamond would ever perform without the makeup in Chicago. IT was a real treat and his voice is still in as good as shape as it is on his classic records. Hos band was in fine form as well and he spared no expense in theatrics either. The setlist was damn near perfect as well as King ripped into the opener “The Candle” and a few cuts off of his late 80s and early 90s records. Then, he pulled two Mercyful Fate classics that I have waited to hear live since day one. He ended his set with three from Abigail and really left an impression on everyone in the crowd. His performance is something that I will remember for years it was that freaking good. Hail to the king baby.

Slayer

Now onto our headliners, SLAYYEERRRRR!!!!!!! As if I haven’t heard it enough, it’s still fun to scream. I was still excited to see Slayer for a second time as I knew they would pull some interesting moves. As the white curtain was draped over the stage, the images of pentagrams and inverted crosses began to roam around and then, cue curtain drop. Slayer ripped into new track Repentless which I might add is freaking insane live, it has a really catchy chorus. Slayer had a large video screen this time around and it displayed some rather gruesome images such as Ed Gein crime photos as well as concentration camps for Angel Of Death. I also liked that they used some badass pyro for this show as well even having the fire shape have inverted crosses in them. Come to think of it I don’t think I have seen more inverted crosses or pentagrams than I have at this show. But anyways, the boys took out some less played tunes from their post 2000 albums which I thought varied up the setlist for once instead of relying on the same tunes over and over. I was a tad shocked they removed seasons of the abyss but I know they wanted to cram some new ones in. Implode I felt sounded great live but when the stillness comes I felt wasn’t a huge crowd pleaser. But all in all they put on a show only slayer can do with more imagery and pyro than before.

Overall, it was a great show. Sure Mayhem has shrunk considerably from three almost four stages to just one but I felt this year they stuck it on home with headlining acts. It is a fun time every year regardless and even though the crowd was maybe a couple hundred people, it still felt huge to me. The clear shining act of this tour also is King Diamond definitely, the strongest set, performance and just overall feel of his show trumps every other act, and let’s hope to see him again real soon. Mayhem Fest 2015 was another great year and let’s hope for a couple more!!

Album Review: Venomous Maximus- FireWalker

“FireWalker” is the sophomore album by Texas doom metal band Venomous Maximus and was released in May of 2015. I first discovered this group while listening to the Doom Cellar one night and really was digging what I was hearing it was heavy and doomy but had some Iron Maiden-like influences which I really found unique and really was excited when the first single was released for this album. However, does this album hold up and are Venomous a band to be reckoned with? Let’s find out.

Track Rundown

1.       Intro- starting with a simple synth beginning is really cool and gives off a John Carpenter feel to me. Not much to say it doesn’t last very long but it is a cool little piece.

2.       White Rose- This track goes straight for the jugular with pounding riffs, heavy drums and a killer vocal performance. I really find the chorus insanely catchy as well. The guitars give off a sound reminiscent of VOL. 4 from Sabbath where it is heavy but not the typical bass heavy, more of a vintage heavy. The chugging guitars remind me again a lot like Iron Maiden which is an interesting taste. Overall this is a real strong opening track.

3.       Through The Black- This is the first song released a bit back for this record and to me is the highlight from the album, the lyrics, the crushing riffs its all there. Interestingly it sounds very Hour Of 13-ish especially in the vocal performance.

4.       Dark Waves- This song has more of that Doom stable sound right from the brooding beginning but picks up a little bit and actually is pretty atmospheric especially at the “I can hear them calling” moments. Another killer song really raw and heavy.

5.       Oct. 14^th- This is a faster song and I can see it being a good live number with all the chanting. What I really like is that even though it is doom it is still very melodic and the vocals are very Mercyful Fate like without the trademark falsettos. One of my favorite tracks on the album.

6.       FireWalker Theme- This is an instrumental track those goes more into ambient psychedelic sounds which is an interesting transition. It almost sounds like what it would be if you were in hell. I also really dig all the subtle synthesizers in the backround.

7.       Angel Heart- Another trademark track for the band. It’s a straight forward Doom tune that does exactly what you want it to do. It also brings up those iron maiden galloping guitar lines as well. Killer track.

8.       The main riff to this song sounds like a Dio song. Not a specific one but just it sounds like a track that Dio could sing over. Another one of my favorite song on the album and I really like the jam at the end where it picks up more it really begs to be played in a live setting.

9.       Fire In The Night- This song has a production along the lines of Sabbaths VOL. 4 again which I like because it retains that vintage heavy sound. I like the verse riffs in this track its just so damn heavy. Another good song for a live setting.

10.   Take on the Grave- In my opinion this track kinda starts slow but it does pick up a bit more toward the middle and more during the solo. Its probably my least favorite track on the record. Its still pretty good but just not a great closer.

Overall, I give this record a 9.3 out of 10. I really enjoyed this record its Like Mercyful Fate was reborn and fused with NWOBHM groups such as Angel Witch and the before mentioned Iron Maiden, however, it remained completely original and if you are a fan of doom metal or just heavy metal then I strongly suggest you check out this record and their debut. I believe they are on tour with High on Fire now (or soon? Correct me if I’m wrong) so go check em out if you can. 

Album Review: Night Demon- Curse Of The Damned

Curse Of The Damned is the debut record by Heavy Metal band Night Demon and was released in early 2015. Night Demon are part of the New Wave of Traditional Heavy Metal which has been going on for years with acts like Cauldron, White Wizzard and others. However, while those bands went more straight forward Judas Priest and Iron Maiden sound-alikes, Night Demon takes most of their influence of the more unknown acts of the New Wave Of British Metal and have the sound down to a science without making it generic and forgettable. I knew the second I heard the first few notes of this record I had to review it as soon as I could.

Track Rundown

1.Screams In The Night- This track sounds straight like a lost Diamond Head demo, but this song is just a perfect opener, its super energetic and very catchy to sing along to as well. The solo is simple and the guitar tone has that vintage British metal warmth of old times. The drums are really loose as I like them to be and the bass OH THE BASS! It is super audible and I love hearing me some bass. Jarvis’ bass tone is one of my favorites I have heard in a while it has a very Steve Harris feel but with a pick which is still a unique trait. His voice is very John Bush mixed with Sean Harris equaling a very broad hit you in the face sound. Excellent fun opener.

2.Curse Of The Damned- Here we have the title track and I love just how heavy the bass opens this song. The main riff hits hard too. I love the chorus it is so damn catchy. The phased out guitar parts I really dig too. The solo is a nice taste without being too much which is what I usually strive for in traditional heavy metal. Another home run track.

3.Satan- I like the main riff during the chorus I always have liked chugging riffs because they are simple but effective. The chorus kinda slows down and after the last two tracks it leaves a bit to be desired. The whole song is all around good just not huge on the chorus.

4.Full Speed Ahead- This song sounds straight off the “Killers” record and hits the perfect sound in the harmonizing guitar parts and the chorus is just a full on crowd singer. The solo is a fast ripper as expected and has almost a vintage Anthax sound to it as well. Killer fun song.

5.The Howling Man- This is the epic long song on this album and it shows with the atmospheric opening and I think the chorus is my favorite on the album it has great guitar and bass lines, vocal melodies and the slow bridge in the middle really adds to this track as well. Best song on the record by far.

6. Heavy Metal Heat- This song is a take on just the idea of a heavy metal show. It’s very much like Metal Thrashing Mad by Anthrax, however, this song still has distinct sound and that again is Jarvis’ very strong vocals. The guitar sounds louder here than the previous tracks for some reason but that might just be my screwed up hearing. Anyway this is another definite highlight out of a slew of many others.

7.Livin’ Dangerous- The riff starts out sounding like Motorheads Over The Top but instantly becomes its own song. This song is my second favorite because the end takes you through tons of pounding riffs that make you think “damn when does it stop?” the solo sounds very motorhead-ish as well which is an A+ in my book.

8.Mastermind- This track is very reminiscent of Doctor Doctor by UFO and its only in the riff structure and the chorus being cheesy, still kicks ass (who said Rock N Roll was supposed to be taken seriously?). I love that dark tempo change in the middle as well just to mix things up a bit. Another fun hitter.

9.Run For Your Life- This song sounds like Turner-era Rainbow to be and Jarvis’ voice even gets close to sounding like his. It’s a pretty good track, very energetic and again the chorus is super catchy as well with the repeat backup vocals. Solo is solid as well as I expect.

10. Killer-The riff sounds like Thin Lizzys Stone Cold Sweat a bit but it sounds killer regardless. The chorus is pretty good not perfect but it passes and I still think this would be a good live track for them to play.

11.Save Me Now- The synthy, hazy opening is pretty cool and different. This song has a bluesy feel to it more than just about all the previous tracks, it’s a bit more somber than the last few but I still like the guitar harmonies during the verses. The chorus has a more radio friendly feel to it like metal bands back in the day would write compared to the balls to the wall songs on the rest of the record. However, this doesn’t take away from the song it just has a more hard rock feel to it which gives a different but good taste. It’s a good closer to record but wait…

BONUS TRACK- Road Racin’ (RIOT cover) - Hot damn! This cover smokes and I am so happy to see a song I loved so much as a kid brought back to the 21^st century. I would love to see people discover RIOT from this song and is a worthy cover.

Overall, I give this record a scorching 9.5 out of 10. Night Demon is a band to be reckoned with and this album is definitely and early contender for my album of the year. It is unfortunate I can’t check them out June 9^th with Raven in Chicago but hopefully on the next run I will. If you have a chance to see them on tour check em out, you won’t be disappointed. Long Live Night Demon! \M/

Album Review: Manilla Road- The Blessed Curse/After The Muse

“The Blessed Curse” is the seventeenth album from legendary Heavy Metallers Manilla Road and was released on February 13^th, 2015. Now real quick I apologize this review is so late, Amazon screwed up my order and shipped it late and I had another album slated to be reviewed but unfortunately I won’t have it in my hands until the earliest May 1^st. But anyway let us get onto this record. First off, Manilla Road was a band that I always heard in conversations, forums etc. but I never gave them a chance. I recently saw that they released this new double record so I thought this would be a good opportunity to delve into a band that has been around awhile the md to late seventies in fact. So we have The Blessed Curse so let’s delve right in.

Track Rundown

1.The Blessed Curse- Starting with the really eerie acoustics I really like the atmosphere really quick and the vocals are epic in say not an over the top power metal way, but a crooning epic way with, again, a very good atmosphere to them. The production when those crushing riffs come in I really dig because it is that raw, 80’s kind of production which I like more than more over produced records. I really think it sounds more live this way. The solo is really hypnotic too and has a power metal-ish feel. I feel like this song sets a really good mood for what this record has in store.

2.Truth In The Ash- This is total old school speed metal and you could totally swear that it was from 1982 and not 2015. This band even being almost 40 years old I am so astonished how they sound like I’m sure they sounded in their prime. At times I feel the vocals get a tad buried behind the riffs but it only happens at small bits that you really can’t notice them that much. The solo rips and doesn’t hold back at all and again sounds like an 80’s speed metal band in their prime.

3.Tones Of Clay- The classical like acoustics are really nice and I do like the variation from fast to slow it keeps things interesting. This song has a more mythic feel to it as well and it is quite interesting as well. This is a ballad that I approve of, because of the fact it is a ballad that is creatively written and not cliché. It really does make this more of a musical adventure as well.

4.The Dead Still Speak- Another more typical Heavy Metal tune, again adding to the variation of this record. I really like the drum patterns in this track and I feel this would work as a great live tune as well. The vocals could have been a bit louder again in the final mix I feel but it doesn’t take away from the song much. It sounds like it is very much an anthem that should have a crowd singing to it. I have to point out the bass is super clicky as well which is a plus when bass is super audible in a song. I love the click from the double bass at the end too it just has that old school charm.

5.Falling- This acoustic riff is really catchy to my ears right off the start and the vocals again, just a whole other layer of feeling. This song is another ballad-ish track but I feel this one is catchier than “Tones Of Clay” The solo is really soulful as well I really dig it. I really like the chorus I feel it would be something that could easily get stuck in my head.  Greatly written track and really picks up at the end.

6.Kings Of Invention- That killer bass kicks off this track which goes back to the heavier side of things. I am starting to sense a pattern with this album which I feel might throw off some of the excitement off of the next few tracks. However, this is another song I feel suited for a live setting. Simply put: Its Heavy freaking Metal, nothing more, nothing less.

7.Reign Of Dreams- Probably the heaviest song on the album actually, and a complete surprise it wasn’t a slower track! I love the chorus to this song and again I could totally see a crowd singing along to this. The solo is really the crown on this track though it sings and cuts so much in the sound I really like it.

8.Luxiferia’s Light- Crushing riffs right off the bat and It kind of sounds Candlemass-ish at least to me. This song is a total track you just headbang to simple enough. The chorus is pretty damn heavy as well. This track is mid paced but is still awesome the drums do a lot of solid fills as well. Great song.

9.Sword Of Hate- The Sabbath feel is strong in this song and I love the palm muted riffing it always adds a heavier feel I think. The solo on this track I think is my favorite just because the guitars sounds heavy enough and asolo against that riff just adds so much flavor to an already delicious track(did that sound weird?). Anyway this is one of my favorite songs on the album.

10.The Muses Kiss- I feel it is good that this album ends on a soft track just because Manilla Road really knows how to write emotional pieces I feel. The vocals are overlaid and I really like it. The guitars really carry this song away and hit home very well I think. I think this proves that even Heavy Metal, with the fist pumping anthems and super aggressive tempos and overall energetic feel, can come in the form of very good written pieces such as this song among others in history and with this album closing on a pretty extended solo, I can see why Manilla Road should be so much more respected in the metal community.

The second disc: After The Muse” I will speak briefly about because it is more or less outtakes and rerecording’s but is still a very solid disc and is worth it with “The Blessed Curse” It is mainly all ballad type songs but they are very nice and I am glad they are on the second disc so I can appreciate them more and they don’t clog the album and drag it for too long.

Overall, I give this album an 8.5 out of 10, I went into this review almost completely blind and I am surprised that this album is as solid as it is from this older band. It really makes me want to go back and discover their discography and if you are a veteran or new Manilla Road fan, I recommend this record for you. It’s got it all.

Album Review: The Skull-For Which Those Are Asleep

For Those Which Are Asleep is the debut record for Doom Metal outfit The Skull and was released in 2015. The Skull mainly revolve around former Trouble members and performs large amounts of vintage Trouble material in their setlists. Finally they have released their debut record which I have been super excited to spin but is it worth the hype? Let’s find out.

Track Rundown

1.      Trapped Inside My Mind-Those Sludgy riffs are just what make classic Doom metal and this track deserves those heavy grooves times ten. Vocalist Eric Wagner has always had a very Ozzy voice but here he makes it more his own and actually gives it a darker overtone. That solo although short really packs a punch as well. Great heavy opener.

2.      The Touch Of Reality- Those sinister single note riffs really bring out that Sabbath worship as well. This album really keeps the classic Doom formula weirdly fresh and really appealing. I love the fuzzy wah in this song I think a little too much it is just so freakin heavy.

3.      Sick Of It All- This song starts out with sort of a Down feel with the heavy drums in the back its just super hazy. It is a bit softer but still retaining the Doom Metal aspect. Pretty decent song here. When it speeds up mid-way through I feel that’s when this song really gets rolling

4.      The Door- starting with some creepy piano and organ in the backround, it really gives this track a gothic kind of overtone. This is one of those tracks you just have to hear with headphones on in the dark. This is probably the most experimental track with pianos added in the back straying from the typical riff heavy Doom Metal.

5.      Send Judas Down- This song is a total hard rocker with the down tuned riffs dominating this track creating some awesome rhythm sections. I really like the kind of off key chorus it just makes it even heavier. The middle part where it softens a bit is really an interesting change of pace and then BOOM back into that killer chorus and probably my favorite solo on the record. Great song.

6.      A New Generation- This song is very Sabbathy and feels a lot like something off of their latest “13” record. It still sounds fresh however and I give a lot of artists kudos for taking an existing sound and making it their own. Pretty decent groovy track.

7.      Till The Sun Turns Black- This is a lot like “Hole In The Sky” especially in the main riff which really sticks out to me. I like the eerie verses as well. Its another riff heavy track with a killer solo. Simple formula but again it works.

8.      For Those Which Are Asleep- The title track begins with some psychedelic-esque acoustic guitars and it really builds with the hazy vocal lines and I eat songs like this up. It’s eerie, it’s heavy it is awesome.

9.      Sometime Yesterday Mourning- This song just defines heavy fuzzy guitar riffing. These riffs are some of my favorite that I have heard in awhile. I am not huge on the chorus it sounds a bit out of place but oh well not every song is perfect.

10.  The Last Judgment- This song weirdly reminds me of Metallica’s “Sad But True” but that was of course when the verse begin, it goes into that signature sound Trouble was known for. This is a good ending track because it doesn’t go on for too long and doesn’t try anything new. It is a rocking tune only these guys could go out with.

Overall, I give this record a 7 out of 10, it really is a throwback to vintage Trouble and I respect that. It sticks to the sound that was forged by the old guard of Doom while still staying fresh and new. Give 9it a try it’s a pretty good record to keep your Doom thirst quenched.