Halestorm - Reanimate 2.0 The Covers EP - Album Review

Release date: October, 8, 2013
Genre: Nu Metal

Overall Rating: 4/5
Label: Atlantic Records
Origin: Red Lyon, Pennsylvania U.S.A
Recommended Tracks: "Get Lucky" "Shoot To Thrill" "Hell is for Children"

Halestorm has not only been a non-stop touring machine, they have also put a successful formula of how a female fronted rock act do the things nowadays hitting the airwaves on the radio, wining a grammy and touring out of the seas as well, the follow’s up 2011 “Reanimate The Covers EP” “Reanimate 2.0 The Covers EP” was released this past October 15 with Halestorm putting their distinctive sound again. The six song album kicks off with “Dissident Aggressor” by “Judas Priest” I like how they didn’t choose a hit and even so they pay tribute to Mr Rob Halford and company in a such a very good way, one of my favorites off the record is “Get Lucky” the #1 hit from the electro-house French-Duo Daft Punk seriously it’s an impressive slow cover even being a Daft Punk fan after listening “Get Lucky” now performed by Halestorm I have to admit really few rock bands take the risk to cover electro songs, pop songs in a faultless way. Lzzy’s vocal versatility is better yet while listening to AC/DC’s “Shoot to Thrill” and Pat Benatar’s “Hell is for Children”. Fleetwood Mac’s “Gold Dust” is probably the only track who has been covered several times, Halestorm’s new EP concludes covering Marilyn Manson’s 1996. Overall Lzzy Hale and his bandmates continue putting their distinctive Hard-Rock sound and giving some freshness to the actual rock & roll scene, the band demonstrates once again their ability covering classic songs and some other pop hits atop the charts leading the night clubs around the world. Debuting around 5 years ago with their first full length and self-titled album  “Halestorm” Those who already know the quality and unique performance of this band won’t be disappointed at all, since Halestorm has made their own name into the genre impacting thousands, Reanimate 2.0 the covers is a fun EP who serves up to mollify fans until the band’s next full length.

Halestorm no ha sido solo una maquina que no para de andar de gira, ellos han puesto una exitosa formula de como una banda liderada por una mujer hace las cosas hoy en dia, sonando en las estación de radio, ganando un grammy y saliendo fuera de su país de origen también. La continuación de Reanimate the Covers EP, Reanimate 2.0 the covers EP fue lanzado el pasado 15 de octubre con Halestorm poniendo su distintivo sonido de nuevo. El EP de 6 canciones comienza con “Dissident Agressor” de Judas Priest, me gusta como no escogieron un éxito ya conocido de ellos y aun asi pagan tributo a Mr Rob Halford y compañía de una muy buena forma, una de mis favoritas del disco es “Get Lucky” el Hit #1 del duo electro-house Daft Punk, en verdad es un lento e impresionante cover, incluso siendo fan de Daft Punk después de escuchar “Get Lucky” ahora interpretada por Halestorm tengo que admitir muy pocas bandas de rock toman el riesgo de coverear electro-pop songs de tan impecable forma. La versatilidad vocal de Lzzy Hale es mejor aun cuando escuchas “Shot to Thrill” de AC/DC y “Hell is for Children” de Pat Benatar. “Gold Dust” de Fleetwood Mac es probablemente la canción que ha sido covereada mas veces. El EP de Halestorm concluye con 1999 de Marilyn Manson, en general Lzzy Hale y su banda continúan poniendo su distintivo sello Hard-Rock y dando algo de frescura a la escena actual, la banda demuestra una vez mas su habilidad covereando canciones clásicas y algunos éxitos pop en la cima de las listas dominando las pistas de baile alrededor del mundo. Debutando hace 5 años con su primer material homónimo “Halestorm” aquellos que ya conocemos la calidad y actuaciones únicas de esta banda no quedaran decepcionados, ya que Halestorm ha hecho su propio nombre en el genero impactando a miles, Reanimate 2.0 the covers es un divertido  EP que sirve para calmar un poco las ansias de los fans hasta que lanzen su promixo álbum de larga duración.ale Ha

The Skylit Letter - Interview

The landscape of rock and alternative music changes daily. It might even change hourly.  The genre moved in some crazy waves from 2006 to 2013. Mainstays are has beens and has beens...

We've just had the chance a couple of weeks ago to chat with the Alternative Rock Band based in East Lansing, MI, The Skylit Letter also you can go through alternativeaddiction.com within the next couple of days to see the story as well.

I saw you guys had a previous name before the band's current name, how long have you been playing as The Skylit Letter?

TSL has been together in its current form for about three years. Mainly it was just a vocalist change; the rest of the group has been playing together for more than five years now.

How would you define your music?

We always say that it’s female-fronted Rock n’ Roll that kicks you in the nuts and then buys you a shot…haha…beyond that it’s just emotionally driven hard rock.

What's the main difference between your band and other new artists out there?

I’d say the main difference is that the songs have a cohesive narrative quality, i.e. the music and lyrics tell a story together, which a lot of mainstream music lacks these days, its either something musically catchy or lyrical captivating, but rarely both. We think we have managed to write songs that everyone can relate to. Things that trouble their everyday lives. Somehow it has blended into a mixture of catchy pop rhythms and other elements with an avant-garde artistic backbone. Basically, it’s no bullshit music for real people, we’re not trying to sell a product, what people hear and absorb is only an extension of ourselves.

I checked out your upcoming tour dates and most of them are in the Michigan area where you’re based, how have your live shows gone so far?

Really great so far, the response has been phenomenal, people have been really connecting with us on and off the stage, which for any artist is the most flattering and inspirational dynamic of the whole process.

Your EP Constellations is really good. What did you learn about the band while making it and what was your overall experience like with that first EP?

The experience was really good, we have all been doing this for years, been in other groups plugging away at the scene in Michigan, not to mention we have known each other for years, so working together in the studio just comes naturally to us. I guess one thing that we learned is that we are super picky about our songs and it takes a really long time to come to a consensus on anything we do, but that’s not necessarily a bad characteristic to have.

Being an independent musician isn’t always easy. What encourages you guys to keep going when things start to get tough?

 Honestly, the one thing that keeps us going is all the support we get from our fans, friends and family. It’s with those people that the life-force of any group is given the means to live on an survive.

Because of streaming services and them being directly linked to social media, do you think it’s easier to get noticed now than in the past?

 No, I think it has worked in reverse. Yes, social media is a great tool for any artist or group to promote what they are doing, but you have to keep in mind that with this there comes a threshold that begins to work against artists. what I mean by this is that because of social media the market is flooded with so many groups and artists, that it is hard for anyone to sift through them, let alone pay attention to any one thing. Not to mention that the unlimited access gives people the means to never really seek out groups, go see shows, or interact with the artist on a face-to-face basis, besides the proverbial Facebook message or something like that. All of this makes it extremely hard for the artist and/or group to gain exposure and receive support from a fan-base; it makes it hard to survive.

Who are your guys’ main influences?

We come from a very diverse set of musical influences. Reba comes from an R & B/Blues background, stuff like Etta James, Ray Charles, and Billie Holiday, which is pretty, clear when you hear her style of vocal. Steve, Nick, and I come from a traditional metal background, stuff like Megadeth and Anthrax, and Chris is more of a 90’s grunge kind of guy, 7 Mary 3 and all that. But we all grew up with and love Rock n’ Roll of course, you name it, we love it, if I had to give any strict influences for the band as a whole, I would say that we take a lot of notes from bands like Rise Against, Thrice, and Foo Fighters, modern rock in that vein with a different vocal edge.

The song “Elusive Day really” got me. What can you tell me about that song?

Elusive Day was the first single off the EP, Nick wrote the lyrics and the music for it. And actually BJ, our long time friend, and producer from Wall of Sound Studios helped us mold that song, cause’ when we brought it to the table it had a lot more going on and needed to be trimmed up a bit, and BJ has one of the best ears for that, hearing where things need to be taken out or added, stuff like leads or harmonies, the guy is super human…haha. The song itself is pretty much about how we as people should never give up on our passions, our dreams, which for us is playing music and connecting with people through the art of sound, and the point is to not let that kind of mentality elude you, as it does to all of us when dealing with the day-to-day hum-drum and distractions of modern life.

You guys are recording right now, what are you working on and when can we expect to see some new music come out from The Skylit Letter?

We laid down two tracks that will be on the next album, a full length that we are shooting to release next summer or fall, we wanted to get one of the singles we chose for it out as soon as possible as a sort of teaser or sampler for what’s to come. Hopefully the single will be out before the end of the year, and we plan on doing a video for it as well.

What are your ambitions for the band in 2014?

For 2014 we are hopefully going to release the full length and play as many shows as possible, the ultimate goal would being able to get out and tour for the record, but that all depends on what else we all have going on in our lives. At the very least we will continue to press on with our grassroots campaign of art and love, and the more people we connect with the better.

The Skylit Letter Contact:

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Los Bunkers En El Festival Internacional Chihuahua - Octubre 9, 2013 - Reseña

Los Bunkers debutaron en la capital del estado grande ya que este pasado miércoles 9 de octubre se presentaron por primera en la ciudad de Chihuahua, en un evento gratuito y para todas las edades ya en la parte final del festival chihuahua que se celebra año con año donde a pesar de que no hubo un lleno total en la explanada del parque el palomar el público chihuahuense recibió con gran furor y acogida a la banda originaria de Concepción, Chile. Los encargados de abrir fueron “69 Nombres” de Barranquilla, Colombia a pesar de ser totalmente desconocidos por acá la gente supo apreciar su rock bailable, su set list de 50 min solo dejo prendida a la fanaticada de los bunkers que ansiosos coreaban a los chilenos tras abandonar el escenario “69 Nombres”. En punto de las 9:05 PM Los Bunkers saltaron al escenario interpretando “No Me Hables De Sufrir” con un público más que eufórico. Su set list de 17 canciones atestiguaron el talento, la frescura y versatilidad que estos 5 músicos ofrecen en el escenario, con una ejecución prácticamente impecable en cada una de las canciones. donde los asistentes a la mágica velada se hicieron notar en canciones como “Deudas” la 3era de la noche, además los exóticos y sensuales bailes de Álvaro López la voz principal “desmayaron” literalmente a más de una chica presente en la explanada donde sus gritos eufóricos prendieron al resto de la multitud. 

Una de las más coreadas de la noche y un momento algo melancólico para muchos fue la dedicación de Álvaro al pueblo chihuahuense a todas las victimas del trágico accidente del Aero show el pasado sábado 4 de octubre con “Ángel Para Un Final” sin duda una de las más coreadas y más aclamadas de la noche. A la par de esta canción le siguieron “El Día En Que Dejaste De Fingir” y “Quien Fuera”. Un momento mas donde el público ovaciono por completo a la banda rockera de Chile fue con el cover “Y Volveré” aquí Álvaro advirtió al público que se abrazaran, toquetearan y se pusieran muy románticos para lo cual la gente no se hizo esperar y canto cada parte de tan romántica canción. 

Un aplauso que se extendió hasta que comenzó la próxima canción “Llueve Sobre La Ciudad” prendieron nuevamente al público ya que los bailes de Álvaro por prácticamente todo el frente del escenario nuevamente alentaron al público a hacer lo mismo casi convirtiendo a una pequeña parte de la explanada en una auténtica pista de baile. “Bailando Solo” de su más reciente producción “La Velocidad De La Luz” fue quizás otra de las más coreadas en la noche. Casi al final un pequeño homenaje a John Lenon con un cover de “The Beatles” demostró nuevamente la gran capacidad de los Chilenos a la hora de hacer covers, el final de la noche llego con “Necio” con unos Bunkers enormemente agradecidos y con gritos y aplausos de fondo mostrando las sonrisas de un público más que complacido. Los Bunkers ofrecen un rock limpio, elegante y sin etiquetas con una variedad de temas ampliamente versátiles y completos me atrevo a decir de las últimas grandes bandas que ha dado el país sudamericano.

Korn - The Paradigm Shift - Album Review

Release date: October, 8, 2013
Genre: Nu MetalOverall Rating: 5/5
Label: Prospect Park/ Caroline Records
Origin: Bakersfield, California U.S.A
Recommended Tracks: "Prey for me" "Spike in my veins" "Lullaby for a sadist"

The paradigm shift has received generally positive reviews. Korn’s influence and importance to modern rock bands goes beyond music, Korn are the soundtrack of a whole generation, Korn’s presence, attitude and innovative way to spawn an entire genre has influenced thousands; first nu metal bands such Linkin Park, Staind and Limp Bizkit among others would have not been the same without the magic and explosive Korn formula at the end of the 90’s and first half of 00’s. It was a kinda weird era watching pop stars getting over the TV when MTV still played music videos and at the same time Korn and its predecessors were rocking out the channel. More so Korn has not only been a nu metal machine they have also created short films with their music videos, winning Grammys and MTV awards. Korn has evolved so much, original members have suffered a lot of changes first when Brian “Head” Welch surprisingly parted ways with the other 4 members, after becoming a Christian “Head” focused on life as a father also released a book “Save me from myself” and his project “Love and Death” in 2012. Korn’s the paradigm shift has gotten a lot of hype, the reason: Korn’s first album featuring Brian Welch after 10 years of absence, following an unexpected reunion with Korn on stage at the Carolina Rebellion on May 5 2012 performing the song “Blind” Brian Welch’s return was officially announced on May 2, 2013. A DVD titled “Reconciliation” has also seen the light explaining Brian’s return also Includes some footage of Ray Luzier’s hometown in West Newton, PA. One of the most noticeable facts about the new album is how they brought back their distinctive sound, the album couldn’t kick off in a better way “Prey For Me” has the Korn formula the fast tempo beats by drummer Ray Luzier, heavy distorted riffs with both seven-string guitars that pioneered the genre also the haunting vocals of Jonathan Davis are better than ever. Some of the songs kick into a full-on bass-guitar-drum-vocal onslaught, each instrument has its own leadership, doubtlessly Korn never sounded better and Brian Welch is all that they needed to get spotlight again, some people say this album is like “Follow The Leader” other ones that they still sound electronic but got the best parts from “Untouchables”. Whatever they say this is Korn’s best album in years, another plus is the inclusion of the drummer Ray Luzier becoming a full time member of the band in April 2009, Ray has given a different approach and sound to Korn, offering talent and freshness something that the old one member “David Silveria” had lost. David Silveria was a fundamental part of the band in their early years and I respect him so much but I think he has lost his mind talking crap and showing so much hatred to the guys in Korn, alleging they have lost the funky groove from the first records and that he would be able to rejoin them In case they wanted him back but I still can’t figure out why do the people spend so much time posting so much negativity and hatred to the world, I can assume Ray Luzier is a better person also a better drummer he has definitely gave a new style to the band and he fits perfectly while David continues looking immature he has to move on because he acts like a teen. Otherwise Brian “Head” Welch showed up at a crucial moment revitalizing the band, Welch definitely helped patent Korn’s trademark sound along with fellow guitarist “Munky” Shaffer mixing a series of dissonant guitars, various effects and rumbling down tuned riffing . The eleventh studio album was produced by Don Gilmore, regarding the sound this album is inspired by Issues or Untouchables as “Munky” has said, also Jonathan Davis thinks “The Paradigm Shift” is now his favorite album. “all of sudden “Never Never” the first single off the new record showed that the band are still trying to expand their horizons by gaining new fans with a softer side, In fact Jonathan Davis said “I knew “never never” it was going to pissed off some people, but this ain’t a song for dudes, it’s for the ladies”. “Love and Meth” the second song is patented by some of the most haunting voices on the album also the heavy-groovy riffs from Head and Munky. “What we do” is definitely one of my favorites I can hear some of the most distinctive components because of the structure. “Spike in My veins” shows Davis’ rawness with some reminiscences of their 5^th album “Untouchables”. “Lullaby for a sadist” is a slow one and well said a catchy lullaby song, putting Davis’ emotions right into the next level. Conclusion: after years of losing the ol’ school sound, line-up changes, and evolving with new sounds even experimenting with Dubstep, that nu metal massive sound is back and stronger than ever genre created by themselves putting the band as one of the most influential acts all over the world in the mid 90’s Korn’s the paradigm is doubtlessly best Korn album to date since “Follow the leader” although I’m pretty sure the guys in Korn can go far beyond their capacities by giving so much better records for the upcoming years. I’m gonna give this record 5 stars out of 5 stars just because the long long awaited without guitarist Brian Welch well worth it also the paradigm shift is going to put the band in the sacred place that they really really deserve again. By the way Korn’s rockwalk induction comes on the same day they release their new album, the nu metal were inducted into the guitar center’s historic rockwalk in Hollywood.

The Paradigm Shift ha recibido generalmente buenas criticas. La influencia e importancia de Korn en las bandas de rock modernas va mas alla de la música. Korn es el soundtrack de una generación, la presencia, actitud e innovadora forma de moldear todo un genero ha influenciado a miles, las primeras bandas un metal como Linkin Park, Staind, Limp Bizkit entre otros no hubieran sido lo mismo sin la formula y explosiva formula de Korn entre mediados de los 90’s y principios del 2000. Fue una época algo rara viendo a estrellas de pop apoderarse de la TV cuando MTV todavía tocaba videos musicales y en esa misma época ver a Korn y sus predecesores rockeando en el canal. Mas aun Korn no solo ha sido un maquina Nu Metal ellos han creado pequeños-cortos con sus videos musicales, ganando Grammys y premios MTV. Korn ha evolucionado mucho, los miembros originales han sufrido un monton de cambios, primero cuando Brian “Head” Welch sorprendentemente anuncio su separación de los 4 miembros restantes, después de convertirse al cristianismo “Head” se enfoco en su vida como papa y lanzo un libro “Save me from myself” además de su proyecto “Love and death” en 2012. The Paradigm Shift de Korn ha ganado demasiada publicidad la razón: el primer álbum de Head con Korn en 10 años de ausencia, siguiendo una inesperada aparición en el Carolina Rebellion el 5 de Mayo de 2005 interpretando “Blind” el regreso de Brian Head Welch fue anunciado el 2 de mayo de 2013. Un Dvd llamado “Reconciliation” también ha visto la luz explicando el regreso de Head también incluye material en el pueblo originario de Ray Luzier, West Newton, PA. Uno de los aspectos mas notables del nuevo disco es como trajeron de vuelta su distintivo sonido, el álbum no pudo comenzar de mejor manera “Prey for me” tiene la formula de Korn, rapidos golpes de batería de Ray Luzier, riffs distorsionados con las dos guitarras de siete cuerdas con que fueron pioneros del genero además la escalofriante voz de Jonathan Davis son mejor que nunca. Algunas canciones tienen un ataque violento en la conjunción bajo-guitarra-bateria donde cada instrumento tiene su protagonismo. Indudablemente Korn nunca sono mejor y Brian Head Welch es todo lo que ellos necesitaban para ser el centro de atención de nuevo, algunos piensan que este álbum suena como el “Follow the Leader” otros que suena medio electrónico pero que toma partes de “Untouchables”. Digan lo que digan este el mejor álbum de Korn en años, otro extra del disco es la inclusión de Ray Luzier en la batería ya miembro formal de la banda desde abril 2009, Ray le ha dado un enfoque y sonido distinto a Korn, ofreciendo talento y frescura algo que el anterior David Silveria había perdido. David Silveria fue una parte fundamental de la banda en sus primeros años y a el yo lo respeto mucho pero creo yo que ya ha perdido la razón, hablando basura y mostrando odio a Korn, alegando que ellos han perdido el sonido funky Groove de los primeros trabajos y el que estaria dispuesto a volver a la banda en caso de que ellos quisieran. Yo todavía no entiendo porque muchas personas gastan su vida odiando y siendo negativos. Yo asumo que Ray Luzier es mejor persona y también mejor baterista y el le ha dado un nuevo estilo a la banda, el encaja perfectamente mientras David continua pareciendo inmaduro. Por otro lado Head apareció en un momento crucial y ha revitalizado la banda, Welch definitivamente patento el sonido Korn al lado de Munky Shaffer. El 11avo disco de estudio fue producido por Don Gilmore “Never Never” el primer sencillo muestra que la banda aun intenta expandir sus horizontes a otro tipo de publico, Jonathan dijo en entrevista que esta canción iba a molestar a ciertos fans por su sonido mas suave, pero que esta canción no es para chicos sino mas bien para chicas. “Love and meth” la segunda canción esta patentada por una de las voces mas escalofriantes en el disco además de los riffs grooves de Munky. “What we do” es una de mis favoritas al igual que “Spike in my veins” muestran la crudeza de Jonathan Davis      con algunas reminiscencias del 5to disco “Untouchables” “Lullaby for a sadist” es una lenta y pegajosa canción de cuna llevando las emociones de Davis al siguiente nivel.

 Conclusion: después de años de haber perdido su sonido old school característico, cambios de alineación y experimentar con el Dubstep, el nu metal masivo de Korn esta de vuelta y mas fuerte que nunca, genero creado por ellos mismos poniendo al grupo como uno de los mas influyentes a finales de los 90’s y principios del 2000, the paradigm shift es el mejor disco de Korn a la fecha desde “Follow the leader” aunque yo se que los chicos del maíz pueden ofrecer mucho mas para la próxima, dare a este disco 5 de 5 estrellas, por el regreso de Brian Welch, la larga espera y porque este disco pondrá a la banda en el lugar sagrado que deben estar además aprovechando la ocasión el dia del lanzamiento del disco 8 de Octubre fueron incluidos en el histórico Hollywood Guitar Center Place.

Scar The Martyr - Scar The Martyr - Album Review

Release date: October, 1, 2013

Genre: Industrial Metal/Alternative Metal

Overall Rating: 3/5

Label: Roadrunner Records

Origin: U.S.A

Recommended Tracks: "Blood Lost" "Soul Desintegration"

Led by Slipknot drummer Joey Jordison, Scar the Martyr was announced in April 2013 and quickly caught up the attention the band consists of musicians who have played for a long time featuring Strapping Young Lad guitarist Jed Simon and ex-Darkest Hour guitarist Kris Norris, later in June the group announced its full lineup which includes Nine Inch Nails former keyboardist Chris Vienna as well. The unknown vocalist Henry Derek Bonner completed the full lineup, Scar the Martyr offers and interesting mix between Industrial/Alternative Metal, Joey Jordison as many of you know is one of the most talented musicians out there, musician, songwriter and producer. Surprisingly Jordison is behind the drumkit. Musically Scar the Martyr sounds well performed each musician contributes an undeniable part of talent and they create a deep atmosphere the music is top notch but does this mean they are going to be at the same level of others contemporary acts? I think this is a nice try but even if you are part of one the biggest Nu Metal bands in history is not a guarantee of success. There are great songs such as “Dark Ages” and “Blood Lost” these ones really put you in the mood for a head banging, in certain songs specifically behind the drumkit the band sounds like Slipknot even it looks like some of these songs would have been taken from an unreleased material of the 9 masked. I recommend this album either if you’re a fan of the side projects or a Joey Jordison fan, the album is good but I’m not sure if it’s going to get the same success or hit those heights than Slipknot or Stone Sour, I remember “Murderdolls” another side project by Joey Jordison now defunct, the attitude and that Horror-Punk-Style really gave a lot of variety and originality among others super groups at that time.

Comandado por Joey Jordison baterista de Slipknot, Scar The Martyr se anuncio en abril 2013 y rapidamente capot la atencion, la banda consiste de musicos experimentados que han tocado por mucho tiempo colaborando el guitarrista de Strapping Young Lad – Jed Simon y el Ex Darkest Hour Kris Norris, mas tarde en junio el grupo anuncio su alineación completa la cual incluye al ex Nine Inch Nails Chris Vienna en los teclados. El desconocido vocalista Henry Derek Bonner completo la alineación. Scar The Martyr ofrece una interesante mezcla entre Industrial/Alternative Metal, Joe Jordison como muchos de ustedes saben es uno de los mas talentosos músicos, compositor y productor sorprendente Jordison esta detrás de la batería nuevamente. Musicalmente Scar The Martyr suena bien, cada músico contribuye una innegable parte de talento y crean uan profunda atmosfera, la música es de primer nivel pero significa esto que estarán al mismo nivel que otros grupos actuales? Pienso que es un buen intento pero incluso si tu eres parte de una de las bandas mas grandes del Nu Metal en la historia  esto no es garantía de éxito. Hay grandes canciones como “Dark Ages” y “Blood Lost” estas realmente te provocan el headbangeo, en ciertas canciones específicamente en la batería la banda suena como Slipknot incluso paraece como si algunas de ellas hubieran sido tomados de algún material inédito de los 9 enmascarados. Recomiendo este álbum si eres un fan de los proyectos alternos o de Joey Jordison, el álbum es bueno pero no estoy seguro si obtendrá el mismo éxito o aires de grandeza de Slipknot o Stone Sour. Recuerdo “Murderdolls” otro proyecto alterno de Joey Jordison ahora desaparecido, la actitud y su estilo Horror-Punk le dieron un chorro de variedad y originalidad dentro de otros super-grupos en ese tiempo.

Smile Empty Soul - Chemicals - Album Review

Release date: October, 1, 2013

Genre: Alternative Rock/Post-Grunge

Overall Rating: 4/5

Producer: Eddie Whol

Label: Pavement Records/Two Disciples Entertainment

Origin: Los Angeles, California U.S.A

Recommended Tracks: "Black and Blue" "Swim" "New Low"

Here’s Chemicals by Smile Empty Soul their sixth studio album just dropped out and I think this is an excellent opportunity to express my thoughts and feelings about one of the most underrated bands I’ve ever heard, and yeah don’t you think the same? Smile Empty Soul once played as a four piece band but originally they are a power trio, they recruited Mike Booth (Ex Cold) during the summer of 2006 and he was added as a second guitarist, by the spring of 2007 he had already left the band which was a mutual split between the remaining members. I’ve always had a special devotion and credibility to these sorts of bands or power trios, there’s a huge potential with only 3 members playing on stage that’s a big difference. Smile Empty Soul is one of those bands that always keep a low profile and don’t get much attention by the press also they have not been specially known for being into the top charts every time they release a new album. However this limitation has made Smile Empty Soul much more special, with “Chemicals” the band goes beyond rock melodic I feel so delighted because these guys have not lost any kind of essence or attitude even now they sound heavier and much more solid and consistent, the togetherness of the band is obviously one of the constants for all those who have followed the band when the first record came out back in 2003. Lyrically “Chemicals” is filled of personal experiences from the mastermind Sean Danielsen, the album opens up with a heavy riff “Black and Blue” it really blows your mind the fast drum tempos while listening to the haunting voice of the frontman just leave you freakin’ excited about what comes around. “False Alarm” the lead single off the record is enjoyable but I think the album has so much more to offer yet, the title track “Chemicals” is a kind of slow one and I like how Sean Cries out the first couple of words. “Swim” is one of my favorites the catchy-bitchy riff is just awesome and really puts you super excited and just in the mood to go to the mosh pit at the rock show. I highly recommend “Chemicals” even if you’re not a huge fan of the band this album is doubtlessly a great example of how a band can achieve success and keep talent without losing their style, they have remained a 3-piece band as well and musically we don’t have many bands offering a melodic side at least not in this way.

Aqui esta “Chemicals” de Smile Empty Soul su sexto disco de estudio que acaba de salir y yo creo que esta es una excelente oportunidad para expresar mis pensamientos y sentimientos sobre una de las mas bandas menos valoradas que he escuchado y si no piensan lo mismo? Alguna vez Smile Empty Soul toco como banda de 4 integrantes pero originalmente ellos son un power trio, ellos reclutaron a Mike Booth (Ex Cold) durante el verano de 2006 y fue agregado como segundo guitarrista, para la primavera de 2007 el dejo la banda con un acuerdo mutuo con los miembros restantes. Yo siempre le he tenido una especial devoción y credibilidad a este tipo de bandas o power trios, hay un enorme potencial con solo 3 miembros tocando en el escenario esa es una gran diferencia. Smile Empty Soul es de esas bandas que siempre mantienen un perfil bajo y no reciben mucha atención de parte de la prensa además no son especialmente conocidos por ocupar las listas de popularidad cada que lanzan nuevo disco. Sin embargo esta limitación ha hecho de Smile Empty Soul mucho mas especial, con “Chemicals” la banda va mas alla del rock melódico. Me siento muy deleitado por que estos chicos no han perdido escencia ni actitud incluso ahora suenan mas pesados y mucho mas solidos y consistentes, la unión de la banda es obviamente una de las constantes para todos aquellos que han seguido la banda cuando ese primer disco salio en 2003. Liricamente “Chemicals” esta llleno de experiencias personales del cerebro Sean Danielsen, el álbum abre con el riff pesado de “Black and Blue” realmente te alucina esos cambios rapidos de batería mientras escuchas la hipnotizante voz de Sean solo te deja ansioso de que mas vendrá. “False Alarm” el sencillo del álbum es disfrutable pero creo el álbum tiene aun mucho mas que ofrecer, la homónima “Chemicals” es algo lenta y me gusta como Sean comienza a medio gritar en las primeras letras de la canción. “Swim” es una de mis favoritas con ese riff pegadizo y electrizante es bastante sorprendente y realmente te pone lo suficientemente emocionado para ir al slam durante el show. Recomiendo ampliamente “Chemicals” incluso si no eres un gran fan de la banda este álbum es indudablemente un gran ejemplo de como una banda puede lograr éxito y mantener el talento sin perder el éxito, ellos se han mantenido como 3 integrantes también y musicalmente no tenemos muchas bandas ofreciendo un lado melódico al menos no en esta forma.

Alter Bridge - Fortress Album Review

Release date: October, 8, 2013

Genre: Alternative Metal/Heavy Metal/Post-Grunge

Producers: Michael “Elvis” Baskette  

Overall Rating: 4/5

Label: Roadrunner, EMI

Origin: Orlando, Florida U.S.A

Recommended Tracks: "Cry Of Achilles" "Bleed It Try" "Lover" 

Get fascinated with the hugely and highly anticipated album of the based Orlando, FL alt-rockers “Alter Bridge” their new album “Fortress” available on October 8 is easily one of the best releases so far this year, “Addicted To Pain” the first single was released on August,12 also the official video for the lead single was released on September 5, “Fortress” The whole album Streamed a couple of weeks ago through Metal Hammer’s main site is a great comeback and has so many epic riffs, high and clean vocal ranges from Mr Myles Kennedy as follows a powerful line while diving into the album, In fact it has no weak moment. Since the very beginning the album kicks-off with one of the best songs into the band’s catalogue “Cry Of Achilles” has that deep power- chord with Mark Tremonti offering his virtuosity and proving he has already become in one of the best guitarists these days, the first riff comes out as an example of how you can blend kinda progressive-classical guitar notes with the force and heaviness of the new wave of American metal, Alternative Rock or whatever you want to call this era. Anyway the more you listen to the album the more you fall in love with it, “Lover” is a slow one and a nostalgic one Myles sings “ If you deny the wounds of your lover you will discover That what you had is shattered and wasted Did you have to take it so far? ” I think this song is perfect as a second single, it has a strong and deep meaning, otherwise some of the songs off the new record remind me some parts of Tremonti’s first length album “All I Was” released in July 2012. The album wraps up with another handful of killer songs giving you the Alter Bridge trademark sound we are used to, “Farther Than The Stream” is probably one of the heaviest songs while “Fortress” with its 7:36 minutes is the longest track on the record. Following Creed’s disbandment in 2004 Alter Bridge has made its own name into the Rock/Metal contemporary acts and also has already become in one of the most consistent and solid rock bands these years, overall “Fortress” its fourth studio album is a formidable new venture and gives “Alter Bridge” the place that their deserve into the rock & roll business.

Fascinante con el enormemente y altamente solicitado nuevo disco de los rockeros Alter Bridge originarios de Orlando, Florida, su nuevo álbum “Fortress” disponible el 8 de Octubre de 2013 es fácilmente uno de los mejores lanzamientos en lo que va del año, el primer sencillo “Addicted To Pain” fue lanzado el 12 de agosto y el video oficial el 5 de septiembre. Se lanzo un streaming de todo el disco hace un par de semanas en la página principal de metal hammer, este es un gran regreso y tiene épicos riffs, altos niveles vocales de Mr Myles Kennedy ya que sigue una poderosa línea mientras te vas adentrando al álbum. De hecho no tiene momento flojo. Desde el inicio del álbum comienza con una de las mejores canciones en el catálogo de la banda “Cry Of Achilles” tiene ese profundo poder en los acordes con Mark Tremonti dando su virtuosismo y demostrando que el ya se ha convertido en uno de los mejores guitarristas en estos días, el primer riff viene como ejemplo de como puedes mezclar notas de guitarra clásica-progresiva con la fuerza y pesadez de la nueva ola de metal americano, rock alternativo o como lo quieras llamar. De cualquier forma entre mas escuchas el disco mas te encanta, “Lover” es una lenta y nostálgica cancion donde Myles canta “ If you deny the wounds of your lover you will discover That what you had is shattered and wasted Did you have to take it so far? Creo que esta cancion es perfecta para Segundo sencillo con su fuerte y profundo significado. Por otro lado algunas de las canciones del nuevo disco me recuerdan algunas partes de “All I Was” el primer larga duración de Mark Tremonti lanzado en Julio 2012. El álbum cierra con otro puñado de buenas canciones dándote el sonido calsico de Alter Bridge al que estamos acostumbrados, “Farther Than The Stream” es probablemente la mas pesada del disco, mientras “Fortress” con sus 7:36 minutos la convierte en la canción mas larga del disco. Luego de la separación de Creed en 2004 Alter Bridge ha hecho su nombre dentro de los actos contemporáneos de Rock/Metal  y ya se han convertido en una de las mas consistentes y solidas bandas estos años, en general “Fortress” su cuarto álbum de estudio es una formidable y nueva aventura y le da a Alter Bridge el lugar que ellos merecen dentro del negocio del Rock & Roll.