Rock Circus CD Reviews

WWW.MONSTERMAGNET.NET	Monster Magnet 4-Way Diablo SPV USA **** Dave Wyndorf and company return again with a solid, psychedelic and hard- rock musical epiphany. Wyndorf widens the already broad palette that is the scope of his proven guitar-god dynamics. Playing off the sleaziness of his vocal capabilities, and amalgamating with the over-all attitude of 4-Way Diablo that is to say the least, precious stoner-rock material. The force of the hard-rock gods is at hand and foretelling, of the part that our hands play in our very own doom. No one can’t say that Wydorf hasn’t adapted to the times, and has always rolled with it for whatever it’s worth. The open track, is the album title, and instantly, one can ascertain the new direction Monster Magnet has been methodically and meticulously orchestrated. And, is not at all pretentious in any way. This is definitely one of those albums that grows on you with each listen. The catchy exotic-intro to “Blow Your Mind” is an indication that this is going to be great fucking song. Then it builds to one “monster magnetic” chorus, and then backs off like a back draft just for a second, then kicks into hyper-drive. The chord at the end is when I blew my nut, they use a really cool guitar effect, that just sounds mastodonic. And, then these stoner-writing magnates whip-out a killer version of the Rolling Stones’ 1967 “2000 Lightyears From Home,” which is a retro-buzzing. psychedelic incantation, and does the Stones great justice. Climaxing to this roll-off riff frenzied chorus, while Mr. Wyndorf entrances you with his musical chants. Guitarist, Ed Mundell cuts the axes-stone in “Cyclone” with his precise pentatonic stimulated aspirations that carries the song out. The instrumental “Freeze And Pixilate,” is a breath of fresh air with it’s mystic hybrid blend, crescendos build and screaming lead guitars. Other standout performances are the down-tempoed “I’m Calling You,” the heavy sliding chords of “Solid Gold,” and the dust-kicking stomper “You’re Alive,” and don’t forget the trip-adelic “A Thousand Stars.” So get that Super Judge thumping again and latch on to a copy of 4-Way Diablo, “monolithic babies!”
WWW.DOWN-NOLA.COM	Down III-Over The Under ILG/Warner *** 1/2 On their third recording, Phil Anselmo and the members of Down release a hard rockin’, southern meddle opus with Over The Under. Gnarley and nasty guitar tones permeate this disc, and are one ear-catching affair courtesy of Pepper Keenan (C.O.C.), and Kirk Windstein. The guitar tones bend, growl and snarl as the album opens up with “Three Suns And One Star,” aligning with Anselmo’s pernicious vocal assault to ‘kings of metal” soundness. The frett-crawling ascension on the following track “The Path,” are an instant exhilaration, and the second song clues you in that this is going to be a wild ride for the rest of the cuts. The chops on here could easily fill the butcher’s bloody rack. This junior release for the once Pantera-side project, is definitely in a contender spot for the best metal release this year. As you watch another summer die into the fall, this is the soundtrack for that. “On March The Saints” is a heavy-thudding, guitar crisscrossing piece that embellishes on that heavy southern sound that the Louisiana-based band borders. Other extraordinary highlights include the ballistic “Mourn,” the riff and runs of “In The Thrall Of It All” and the mammoth down-chopping of “N.O.D.” Yet, as each Down project, sounds in and of itself. That takes this band of gypsy-meddlers to a new level every time they record.
WWW.MASTODONROCKS.COM	Mastodon Blood Mountain Reprise **** Although it was released several months back, this disc deserves another conscientious boost for its sheer brilliance and originality. The monster-sounds with an equally monstrous voice add up to a release, which is to say-the-least, a nu-metal monstrosity. And, the artwork is indicative of the conceptual piece that is Blood Mountain. This Conneticut-born bands major label debut is the “full-metal” package. Which, allows the full “package” of Mastodon to serve as a paradigm of everything a good A & R rep is looking to sign these days. As far as, a metal/rock band. Vibrant scowling guitars that transcend to very progressively layered changes, loads of brutally deep, knuckle-busting low-end grind (courtesy of lead guitarist Bill Kelliher and bassist Troy Sanders), and vocals that come at you like glass in a high-speed auto accident. Vocalist/guitarist Brent Hinds, delivers a highly impressionable performance on Blood Mountain, and instantly makes the headbanger aware immediately with the fast-and-tight screamer “The Wolf Is Loose.” The progressive breaks that imbue Mastadon’s music, at times, has progressive dynamics reminiscent of old Yes. And, how they structure the song around these change-ups (“Capillarian Crest,” “Bladecatcher,” and “This Mortal Soil“), is what’s so fascinating about this bands third release. And, like I said if you haven’t checked this stuff out yet, do so!
WWW.SUBURBANNOIZERECORDS.COM	(hed)pe Insomnia Suburban Noize *** 1/2 While many in the mainstream may consider the whole rap/rock thing inconsequential, and over. (hed) pe proves once again that this genre to be a staple in the underground movement. The tracks on Insomnia are brutal interpretation of what’s going on in the world around them. The lyrics are as equally assaultive, and creates an awareness of these crucial and difficult times, and frontman Jarhed is a wicked and nihilistic messenger. The first single, “Suffa” is a hard-riffin’ and catchy-as-hell with chant-syled chorus. When the verse does kick in your blood’s boilin’ with piss and vigor enthusiasm. “Listen” is a very relevant to-the-times remake of Buffalo Springfield’s “For What It’s Worth.” But, the bridge is sick as it rips out like a hundred Harleys.
WWW.SUBURBANNOIZERECORDS.COM	Mondo Generator Dead Planet Suburban Noize ***** On their Surban Noize Records debut, Nick Oliveri and company redefine the hardcore/stoner rock genre to a new standard. Holding nothing back. This is obvious in the first single and video “Lie Detector,” is and excellent insight as to the flowing synergy that exudes from Dead Planet. Each song has its own independent signature sound and perspectives. Oliveri’s voice transcends each song with a perfect counterparts. HIs voice ranges from demonically maniacal in “Bloody Hammer” to a rough-melodic cut in the spacey, “Take Me Away.” And, the totally punks-it-up with full rowdiness on the Johnny Cash cover “Sam Hall.” The songs on this project will just pop-in-your-head when not listening to Dead Planet: The mark of a great rock album. “Paper Thin” is acclamation of this statement, with the choppy-noted verses that hyperdrive into sleeper-noted chorus. It’ll just pop into your head when you least expect! And, did I mention how this former Queens Of The Stone Age/Kyuss member slams out some major bass riffs. Which, adds up to this being the rock album of 2007. And, meaning that you better get out and add this to your favorites in you collection.
WWW.MIKEFARRISMUSIC.NET	Mike Farris Salvation In Lights Mean It!/INO **** In a day and age when most people are agnostic, or nonbelievers, Mike Farris and his new group bring a message of hope, and a beacon of light with the long-awaited release of Salvation In Lights. Described by Farris as a traveling tent revival show, S.I.L. proves to be virtuous and rich in traditional sound. The first track, “ Sit Down Servant“ may remind some of the old-time Baptist gospel radio shows of the past. And, form the next track on to the last, it’s a pure stomp and clap revival, with a dithyrambic love and enthusiasm that only Farris is capable of giving. Not selling him short at all, he’s a quintessential crooner. It’s quite obvious he’s worked his salvation out on his guitar, and it shines brightly on the listener. And, it’s all in there; hints of New Orleans with the subtle horn ensemble ( Jim Hoke, Steve Herrman and John Hinchley ), the south with huge-sounding gospel singers (Gale West, Ann West), a little Motown and blues with the guitar work (Farris, John McMahon andRob McNelly). Mike Farris ardently delivers a message of hope and sustentation in a medium that seemingly has fallen to the wayside, but rebirthing it with a new exuberance. “Devil Don’t Sleep” is a ominous and bluesy little number that really is a standout performance. You can feel Farris’ battle with his personal demons that he has manifestly encountered. While contrary to that song, “Can’t No Grave Hold My Body Down” is an upbeat tune that’s as uplifting as a sunrise on Sunday. And, the big sound of the background choir in “Can’t Sit Down” is spine-tingling thrill. The blues and jazz ensemble known “Oh Mary Don’t You Weep,” you really feel the New Orleans in this number. While the following cut, “Precious Lord, Take My Hand” is a brightly polished piano number almagamated by some slick horns. This former Screamin’ Cheetah Wheelie takes a vast array of different influences and fathers a uniquely elaborate and elegant recording. When this former SCW frontman and his band holed-up in a famous Nashville recording studio they just may have created the album of his lifetime, and is quite deserving of a grammy nomination in its genre.
WWW.OZZY.COM	Ozzy Osbourne Black Rain Epic **** So, the godfather of metal can still kick it with the best of them. Black Rain is one rebelliously solid effort. Plus, you get free tickets to Ozzfest for purchasing the black-master’s latest. (You better hurry though!) Totally mixed-down with Pro-Tools, it gives the Ozzman a very current sound. Ozzy boldly proclaims his metal-title with the opening cut. “Not Going Away.” Along with the snarl of Zakk Wylde’s mean-ass guitar work. They run him through some sort of enveloping filter in “ “ for a dimensional treatment purpose. “I Don’t Wanna Stop” is permeating the airwaves of FM rock all across the country. And rightfully so, it’s a killer track. Another resonating variance, is the dropout rhythm guitars for leads (“The Almighty Dollar,” “Trap Door”), relying solely on heavy rudimentary bass-riffs. And, nobody does a metal-ballad like Osbourne, he’s a powerhouse of poignant dynamics. He really shines on the ballady cuts (Lay Your World On Me,” “Here For You”). Wylde is really an affluent keyboardist as well, matching the Ozzman’s melacholy. The title track has got an early Sabbath feel, yet isn’t completely retro-fitted as the song builds. And, gives account of being stuck in the dessert fighting a war, with a twisted government backing them. Wonder who he could be talking about?! “Civilize The Universe” is another standout performance on this future classic works with knife-jabbing riff, and big-rock chorus. So, the Ozzman has “cometh” again with Black Rain, and this release is a must-have for Ozzy and Black Sabbath fans.
WWW.VELVETREVOLVER.COM	Velvet Revolver Liebertad RCA **** When I’m wrong (which, is not often), I admit it. And, after listening to Velvet Revolver’s sophomore release, I must say it totally rocks-out. And but good. Personally, after hearing their debut, I felt they were making music for the A & R reps at RCA. But, on Liebertad vocalist Scott Wieland gives a stellar and commanding performance. While Slash and Crew throw it down like there’s no tomorrow. Maybe Elvis should of have jammed with The Beatles (ha-ha)!
WWW.MARILYNMANSON.COM	Marilyn Manson Eat Me, Drink Me Interscope * 1/2 There no doubt that Trent Reznor’s Year Zero perpetuates him into a class of musicians that are the reknowned geniusly elite. What Trent Reznor is to modern music, is comparable to what Beethoven and Greig are to the most comprehensive symphonic structures ever written. Just give a listen to “Survivalism” or “Vessel,” and you should agree with this analogy. This is some of the most brilliant and controversial work Reznor has committed to disc, and is very addictive for the listener. You’ll need Trent’s digital feed, repetitively! The theme for Year Zero is a nihilistic outlook of the downfall of the human race, due to corruption, our piss- poor leadership and unethical corporations out sourcing jobs and cooking the books price-gouging the goernment for services received (see “Capital G” or “The Greater Good”), maybe?! The epitomy of “what’s to come” via Renzor-vision. And, he does so maticulously and painstakedly with such five-star results. Lower minds won’t even be able to digest, or truly appreciate all of his comprhensive work. The digital bends and technolgy are far more advanced than anything previously recorded, by anybody. There’s just sixteen tracks here that rip apart everything you thought you’ve known about the creation of music. No American Idol can even get close too this panorama of talent and creativity. On the other hand, Manson releases his worst works to date. Eat Me, Drink Me falls well short of his last disc, The Golden Age Of Grotesque. In fact, after taking it in several times, one might “puke” him up after listening to the languishly rancid melodies. Accompanied along with ultra-weak guitar parts that imbue this disc. It seems as if Masnon is trying too hard to appease the emo-kids out there spending tons of loot on that whiney shit. And, totally abandons is his old longtime die-hard fans that have made him. Maybe, he should of kept Johnny 5, instead of letting him go to Rob Zombies band. Additionally, Manson shouldn’t be touring with Slayer in support of Eat Me, Drink Me. I would say his latest material is more suited to hit the road with Maroon 5 or Taking Back Sunday!
WWW.BLACKLIGHTBURNS.COM	Black Light Burns Cruel Melody I Am: Wolfpack/Adrenaline **** We’ve all come to know Wes Borland as an eccentric, enigmatic and quirky musician. He’s just out there, with his brilliant guitar-playing and unique songcrafting. And, after the hit and misses of his previous solo work to connect with a fan-base. Black Light Burns does have the qualities that should affect him with a serious following. Cruel Melody opens with the off-timed, staccato-laced “Mesopotamia,” and instantly it sticks you. While, Borland really pulls off the singing duties well, matching the music he creates through many different palletes. You see, ole’ Wes is an overachiever handling most of the guitar work, vocals, synthesizers, bass, programming and a plethora of other duties on his Black Light Burns debut. He did however bring in powerhouse, Josh Freese for drum duties amalgamating his creative competence. “Lie” is a wall of sound that eminates some huge rock riffs, adjoined by digital-tech. The vocals are huge too, which is really surprising from the former Limp Bizkit guitarist. Nothing here is slightly reminiscent of his former band, just some excellent post-industrial, hard-rocking shit that extends into some melodically structured lead work. The title track has this dark, etheral vibe that also has got a jangle about it, if you know what I mean. It’s one mean stew. Other highlights include; “The Mark,” the synth driven “Stop A Bullet” and the drifty instrumental “Iodine Sky.”
WWW.PROROCK.COM	Clutch From Beale Street to Oblivion DRT Entertainment ***** Well, where Clutch left off on the final two tracks on Exodus: Robot Hive with blues tributes (Howlin’ Wolf’s “Who’s Been Talking, and Mississippi Fred McDowell’s “Gravel Road”), is exactly where they pick it up on From Beale Street To Oblivion. Only more amped-up with that suigeneris Clutch vigor! The opener, “You Can’t Stop Progress“ really forte’s drummer Jean-Paul Gaster, and the structure of the music builds off his unduplicable style of drumming and explodes into the chorus, “you can’t stop/ you can’t stop progress/ no-no-no” . Which, is a very up-tempo, as opposed to stoner drum beats familiar to the fans. Neil Fallon’s witty, power-packed lyrics grab each riff-and-turn of the band’s musical direction and perpetuates it to a level equivalent too the grand finale of a Fourth of July spectacle. Keyboardist Mick Schauer has found a permanent place in the fold of this Jersey group. Adding, a new foundation to the band’s propensity for monster-grooved storms. The first single and vid, “Electric Worry” features Fallon riffing it out with Tim Sult creating heavy slabs of guitar for guest harpist Eric Oblander‘s over-the-top “lung and tongue” show. Cuts like “Mr. Shiny Cadillackness” and “Child Of The City” rock-out in that true Clutch fashion. Rip and F’n roar, baby! While, “White’s Ferry” has got that mellow Hammond B3 treatment, matched with delayed guitars, has a chilling effect. Inside the artwork, the caricatures that accompany the song’s title and lyrics are a howl. Speaking of the artwork, the band apologized to the artist that designed From Beale Street..., because of the label releasing a plastic case instead of the cardboard one, that was originally designed. It doesn’t take away from the music of this one the least bit...
WWW.SHADOWSFALL.COM	Shadows Fall Threads of Life Atlantic **** On their brand-new big label (Atlantic), Shadows Fall releases their most focused and polished sets to date. And this, is no doubt due part to the fact of being guided by producer Nick Raskulinecz (Foo Fighters, Stone Sour, Rush). The shred of guitar duo Matthew Bachand and Johnathan Donais matches the hooks and jabs of their aggressive attacks. Just listen how it comes together in “Storm Winds.” It’s perspectively balanced in a fashion and manner they haven’t cut until Threads Of Life. And it seems that Raskulinecz has gotten onto two-inch tape, what is without a doubt Brian Fair’s best vocal performance to date. Threads Of Life will no doubt be to the masses of the new millennium; as what Metallica were to the foundations in their heyday. Tracks like the infectious “Venomous,” and the spiteful “Dread Uprising” are prime example. It sounds as if there is three or four different vocalist on the Massachusetts quintets third full-length. Although, there are two vocalist, including guitarist Bachand’s. He and Fair rip back and forth at times like caged lions. Broadening the already bombastic sound. This is a must have for metal-heads!
WWW.SUBURBANNOIZERECORDS.COM	Kottonmouth Kings Hidden Stash III Suburban Noize **** 1/2 Served-up nicely on two discs and a dvd. The Kings pull from a “mixed bag” of tracks, ranging from freshly recorded materials, and other works dating back as far as the High Society sessions. “Gone Get High” sounds fresh as big dank crops. And, is an ideal track to roll and bump, it’s got that street vibe. Several previously released joints are remixed (“Peace Of Mind,” “The Lottery”), and should serve for some of that ‘’good listening” too the adamant fan. Which, are probably all waiting in anticipation for the Kottonmouth Kings’ summer release, tentatively titled Cloud 9. There are also cuts by King Spade (“That’s How It Goes”), Big B (“The Underground”), Judge D (“Losin’ Streak”) and a host of other Subnoize Rats. Not a lot of filler on these discs- they’re packed solid. Through and through, these OC hip-hop pas never sell themselves short in anything they do. The dvd is another “mixed bag” of video’s by acts on the mighty Suburban Noize Records. So, you’ll wanna peep that shit, and have six or seven “rips” with that!
WWW.JOHNYCASH.COM	Johny Cash American V: A Hundred Highways Lost Highway/American ***** Cash’s final session before he poignantly passed on, plays out as a tribute of pure and soulful songcrafting. That serves as a metaphoric epitaph, which immortalizes the patrimonial legend, Johnny Cash. And, kudos to producer Rick Rubin for capturing a hauntingly beautiful performance for “The Man In Black’s” final set. The music flow like an old familiar creek, and as pure as the melted snow’s water that flows forth in the springtime. The cameos by stars in the video “God’s Gonna Cut You Down,” falls nothing short of an appropriate hommage to the lyrics: for he called my name and my heart stood still/he said John go do my will/go tell that long tongue liar/ go and tell that midnight rider/ tell the rambler, the gambler, the back bitter/ tell them God’s gonna cut’em down/ tell’em Gods gonna cut’em down. Preachingly poetic. Tracks like ”Love’s Been Good To Me” and “Rose Of My Heart” are lovingly conveying his asspirations for his wife, the late June Cash Carter. While, “Like The 309” display his foundations in dark blues/country he bled into microphones all over the world. And, surprisingly Johnny does a remake of Gordon Lightfoot’s “If You Coud Read My Mind.” His voice’s shaky age adds even a more poignant sentiment than Mr. Lightfoot accomplished with the tune.
WWW.TOMWAITS.COM	Tom Waits Orphans: Brawlers, Bawlers & Bastards Anti- **** Three wonderfully comprehensive discs adorn this latest package from the legendary Mr. Tom Waits. With twenty six new tracks, and a multitude of intriguing and unusual outtakes from past recordings. And, some cool experiments. It’s the motherload for any Waits fan.
WWW.HONEYTRIBE.COM	Devon Allman’s Honeytribe Torch Livewire *** Being the son of southern-rock royalty (Greg Allman), doesn’t automatically mean that the talent has been naturally been passed on a generation. Just ask Sean Lennon. Devon Allman’s Honeytribe seems to lack a certain element. And, that aforementioned elements could be-soul. There have been bands that have risen out of the south (i.e. The Screamin’ Cheetah Wheelies, Ian Moore,Bloodline...), with tons of soul, and weren’t embraced with mass hysteia by the media, or major masses. They also lack that “jam element” that was made so famous by his father and deceased uncle. The kids got talent, don’t get me wrong. But, I just don’t think it’s reached maximum fruition, just yet. The title track comes off strong (displaying potential), which is the set-up for the let down on some of the following tracks. However, Honeytribe turns in a competent rendition of Bob Marley’s classic, “No Woman, No Cry.” Maybe they should consider going a hybrid version sound of reggae. Better luck next time, boys.
WWW.TWISTEDTHOUGHTS.COM	Twisted Thoughts self Deface *** 1/2 Just imagine Hannibal Lecter had a band...Twisted Thoughts are three maniacle, killing-spree frenzied rappers-that spend a lot extra time in the old graveyard adding unmarked graves-spitting their tales of murder and mayhem. Is pure entertainment! Come on, like you never fantasized of killing some asshole that pissed you off! Dr.E and company deliver some insidious trax that aren’t for the faint of heart, or children. But, in the context of some good halloween fun-this is an excellent party disc for you to entertain your ghouls! At times, it’ll make you bust a gut, when you hear the three try to bury a body, and not get caught. These guys should be busy playing out, due to the fact that they’ve got certain macabre talent that fits the season. Juggalos should also check this joint out-it could prove to be your favorite local band to fill the void between ICP tours. Kudos to the guys for mixing an original “twisted thought.”
	Sound Stage Presents Robert Plant & The Strange Sensations Live DVD Rounder/Zoe ***** It’s so cool seeing the old Sound Stage series-a PBS series that’s been dormant for over a decade until last year-being revitalized. And what better way to resurrect it with one of hard rock’s most distinguished and influential voices, Robert Plant. This Worschester, England native and his very accomplished band-The Strange Sensations-deliver a live performance that’s flawless and expidentially superb. This group wasn’t nominated for four grammy’s with their last two studio releases for no reason. And that perfection of sound is carried through on this Rounder/Zoe DVD collaboration simply put is stupendous. Plant and The Strange Sensations work a couple of Zep classics-reworked-in their live set. And, it obvious that Plant’s passion for his former band songs are the catalyst to what inspires him to keep writing good music. And, surrounding himself with fresh faces. Instead of doing that reunion tour that all Zep-heads want. Plant lives in the moment not the past. and his solo career boast that proudly. Bobby still has all those body moves that made him legendary as he twists and writhes to the flow of the sound that his band propagates. And, director of this project, Joe Thomas captures the magic and presence of the band with technical perfection-sound and sight! The bonus songs are also a cool little surprise, including a Dylan cover, “Girl From The North Country.” And, the 1962 Billy Roberts’ song-mad famous by Hendrix, “Hey Joe.” The 5.1 Surround Sound mix really give you the effect of being at this soon to be infamous performance. Robert Plant is still the man! And, this dvd should be a perfect stocking stuffer for any Led Zeppelin fan this Holiday Season.
WWW.EVANESCENCE.COM	Evanescence The Open Door Wind-Up *** 1/2 Surprisingly, Amy Lee and company steer clear of the power-pop route, and deliver a cutting-edge hard rock sound with The Open Door. Which is delivered from beginning to end accompanied by dark and moody undertones. Newcomer- guitarist Terry Balsamo, blasts schards of guitar fury between Lee’s beautiful piano ensembles. Which, together fire off meticulously to a “bigger and booming” drum track. Quite evident in this set’s opener, “Sweet Sacrifice.” Then transcends into the bluesy-voiced intro on,“Call Me When Your Sober,” then crescendo’s to a rock symphony of sorts. “Cloud Nine” is another really solid song from this release with the way it twists and turns with fury. Lee hits new heights with her “voice of the gods,” and soundscapes with a seemingly newer palette. “Lose Control” and “All That I’m Living For” are paragons of this analogy. Evanescence’s The Open Door boldly affirms; that they are here as contenders in the rock community.
WWW.MYSPACE.COM/NEUROSONIC	Neurosonic Drama Queen Bodog *** 1/2 Now this particular group of kids from the north in Neurosonic have got the right idea! Incorporating digital recording media, the latest in rock technology, and strong harmonies, which at times sounds comfortably Beatle-esque. More specifically, Lennon-esque (more so than Sean Lennon too-ha). The opening track, “So Many People” cuts up on Ashley Simpson’s now- forgotten botched SNL performance. And, goes one step further by cutting up on media that supported her after her acrimonious display of talent, or the lack of, as pointed out by vocalist/multi-instumentalist/programmer/producer, Jason Darr. (Talk about a whiz-kid!) These purveyors of nu-goth industrial rock are to be commended on their debut on Bodog Records with Drama Queen. Which stands surreal, as well as relevant too our times. Like Trent Reznor’s soundmachine makes one feel, current. And these Canadian rock-visionaries sell no track short of the full potential of the song’s acrued dynamics. The “single” -“Are Solar,” is a mega-dosed fueled frenzy from both sides of the spectrum, that gauges from rock to prog. So, if your looking for something new and different, and very anti-Ashley Simpson. Then Neurosonic is for you-head!
WWW.ZAKKWYLDE.COM	Black Label Society Shot to Hell Roadrunner *** 1/2 There’s no doubt that Zakk Wylde is the quintessential definition of what a hard rock/metal guitarist should be. His licks and riffs are always groovin’ while kicking up a major dust storm along the way. His vocals are raw and gritty. Which, is the perfect compliment too his particular style of guitar-shredding. And an excellent example is the first single from Shot To Hell, “Concrete Jungle.” But, this isn’t the only weapon in his arsenal. Wylde is an accomplished piano player as well, and writes some beautiful ballads. Such as, The tribute to Dimebag Darrel, “The Last Goodbye.” It’s a spectacular heartfelt arrangement. And, there’s no cheese in it like most of the commercial ballads the invade rock radio. “Blood Is Thicker Than Water,” forte’s a new side for BLS, kind of an alternative rock track for this legendary axe-slinger. And, displays how his production skills have evolved as a self-produced artist. Very in-depth, as far as, layering of the tracks. There’s still plenty of shred in cuts like “Black Mass Reverend,” “New Religion” and “Hell Is High.” Which, no doubt will become staples in the repertoire of Black Label Society’s large diehard following. Shot To Hell raises the bar a notch or two than his predecessor Mafia.
WWW.MUSHROOMHEAD.COM	Mushroomhead Savior Sorrow Filthy Hands/Megaforce ***** On their new label (Which, will probably do a considerate amount more for these guy’s than their prior label did. Due to the fact they didn’t sound like Godsmack!), this Cleveland powerhouse releases Savior Sorrow. Which, may very well fucking be their best effort too date! Vocalists Jeffery Nothing and newcomer Waylon amend and compliment each other better than that original guy did with Mr.Nothing. And together, they procure some of the most ominous, insightful and brutal lyrics too date. Even, heartfelt poignancy in the track “Embrace The End.” Which also serves as the bands first acoustic-based piece. As far as the sound, there’s just more. More pure Mushroomhead ingenious! The subtle nuance that permeates the album, which these masked marvels are notorious for, are taken to a new level and realm. “Simple Survival” is being tracked, as well as being highly requested at the coolest and most influential FM stations throughout the country. And, with good cause. It’s harmonic chorus yields to the superlative infectious grooving- grindage that backs the verses. And for the diehard fans, they will appreciate how this release just gets better with each track. The macabre “Save Us,” or the meet-the-new-band cut “12 Hundred” and “Tattoo” are pure technical ecstasy. And I love the way Gravy has augmented on his guitar bends like in “Damage Done” as one prime example. Skinny rocks those frickin’ skins out. He’s! like a well-hung racehorse in full onslaught. There’s just not enough praise that can be said for Savior Sorrow. And, if your one of the first lucky 50,000 to get the hologram cover; special edition. You’ve got yourself an extraordinary peice of work! This is the best metal release of 2006!
WWW.MINISTRYMUSIC.ORG	Ministrty Rio Grande Blood 13th Planet/Megaforce *** 1/2 Al Jourgensen has always been a controversial character, and Rio Grande Blood is no letdown in his pursuit of controversy. He implicates that Bush knew about 9/11 before it happened, and helped make it happen so he could take away our freedoms in the name of terrorism. Seemingly accurate in retrospect. Ministry really pushes the envelope on Rio Grande Blood, sonically and esoterically. The samples may not be as obvious as the “Psalm 49” days, but the exuding just enough at appropriate times. The guitar chops are as mean as ever on this release. And, these fathers of industrial have created some sick loops. A few marines may take issue with “Gang Green” because of its cynical take on the dogmatic operations and rituals of those Semper Fi guys. You know with this release Ministry will definitely make the Pentagon's watch list!
WWW.ARTIMUSPYLEDRIVER.COM	Artimus Pyledriver self-titled DRT Entertainment **** I thoroughly believe my delusion (Believe-mia), and that is; the spirit of Bon Scott has been annexed from the underworld and put into the vocalist of Artimis Pyledriver- Dave Slocum. This guy is the “real m.f.-ing deal” as far as ultimate rock vocalist, not that whiney emo shit that the kids love sooo much. Along with Slocum’s balls-out voice, grinds one of the meanest mother fucking bands to hail from the south in a longtime. The opening track, “Swamp Devil” is a rather abrasive introduction by the band, and confirms my previous statement. Solidly. From there, all the way through to the last cut “Up The Creek,” there is no remission of energy and vigor. “Dixie Fight Song,” for example pulsates an efficacy that is enchantingly virulent. Plus, the sounds of this southern spirited, whiskey fueled quintet do not become redundant. Artimus Pyledriver are a Hemi-powered southern hardcore band. So, instead of listening to that Skynyrd disc for the bazillionth time, get with the times with Artimis, it just might save your ass!
WWW.DREADNOTS.COM	Dreadnots Money Machine Beyond Space **** These self-proclaimed, “psychedelic hip-hoppers” release their second ultra-conscientious independent. And, the Pittsburgh-based band proves to be visionaries once again on their latest effort. Money Machine has a much darker, underlying elements than their previous self titled release. It has hard beats, with an underlying hum of low-fi that crosses over to the latest studio wizardry with ease. This joint gyrates a hypno-synergy matched by the rip and flow chants that are a strong point of Dreadnots. And, by rip, I mean they rip open a topic and flow their words all over that subject. Without beating around any bushes... The material is substantial, consisting of eighteen tracks, with the provoking titles like “Prince Of Pittsburgh,” “Hip, Square, Dead,” “Less Fuzz More Focus,” and “Starship Free Enterprise.” You know your gettin’ an earful, and a head-full.”
WWW.BAGHEADMETAL.COM	Baghead Betrayel EP self **** I said it before, and I’ll say it again- this band should be signed. Period. These metal guru’s need to be unleashed in a full-sized recording studio, with some great producer, and added to Ozzfest. Their musical prowess and hard-edged vocals would definitely captivate the masses of metal fans worldwide. Baghead is always searching to take their thunderous bash too new heights, and with each recording-succedes relentlessly. Dave Palmer pulls off some interesting changes (i.e. “In Hell Help Me) that has displayed real growth in song writing and implementation of technique. If all goes well, you’ll be reading his column in Guitar World someday. This is a band I tell you now to get out and support on this level, because you’ll miss them when their off touring the world!

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