MAGIC STARLIGHT 'ZINE

In The Machine - S/t CD review

2011-06-02T12:32:00.001+03:00

In The Machine - S/t CD (Independent Release)

You could discover behind my flattering words on the band’s debut song “Running” that leaked and made me interview the band (read the article here), an anticipation regarding the release if their debut. Well, one year later I am holding in my hand the very first ITM release and my feelings of joy are intense.

The band that features one of my all-time favorite vocalists, Corey Brown, known from his appearance in the always amazing bands Psyco Drama, Magnitude 9, Section XVI, Balance Of Power, Metro Society and others as well released a debut that contains modern and well-structured songs that draw the listener’s attention. US Prog Metal is so alive and kickin’, especially when it’s performed by so experienced and talented musicians.

Corey’s voice is in really good shape. His expression is still passionate, while its melodic lines are once again so wonderful. His passionate and powerful performance is so intense on the songs “For The Last Time”, “Out Of My Head”, “Bury Me”, Running”, “Never Let Go” compositions that I really cannot stop listening to!

In The Machine is a band I am proud of. Their very first album delivers the music that I am fond of. Dark, passionate, full of diverse emotions. To be honest, this is art. And the artists involved in this project know how to create and even wake the listener’s soul.

Corey and the rest of the gang have finally returned to the scene. And this is a great headline for all the fans of the genre. You can purchase their debut and realise by yourself that qualitative music will never disappear as long as band like ITM are contributing such albums!

The CD is available on iTunes, Zune, Amazon.com and CDBaby.com. Band’s web-site: www.itmband.com

Dimitris Starakis

Eumeria - Rebel Mind CD review

2011-05-22T17:09:00.000+03:00

Eumeria - Rebel Mind CD (Independent Release)

If someone is familiar with the name Bobby Williamson, then he knows that we deal here with an album that is destined to become classic!
The keyboard player from the mighty Outworld is back with a new band and I feel lucky to enjoy an album that is simply wonderful.
I still remember the day when I obtained Progpower’s IX showcase CD and listened to the opening track. It was titled “Bobby Williamson - Heirs of Peril” and from that day I consider it to be one of the finest anthems in the modern Power/Prog Metal period!

Eumeria is a fully-talented band. Featuring the always amazing Jonathan Tatum, a british singer who is gifted with a wide and harsh range in his voice, the songs are coloured with his clean and melodic vocal expressions. Along with virtuoso guitarist Reece Fullwood, the band transcends the typical barriers and progresses the Power/Prog Metal genre, adding originality and quality with the debut CD.

Harsh guitar sound that leaves you breathless with the ability to play noticeable solos and riffs, while the atmosphere in the album is pompous, emotional and powerful. Keyboards play the same role in this, without leading or staying on the background.

It is so optimistic to witness a band that doesn’t want to be another copycat of the “dinosaurs” of the genre and is brave enough to show the world its musical identity.

Please allow me not to comment each song separately. I think words are poor enough to make you realise what has been created in this album. The celebration of the human inspiration is traced clearly in Eumeria’s debut.

You will be right if you think that I am quite enthusiastic on this review. I really am. In a time full of bands that follow a certain trend that comes and goes, in a period where inspiration is buried under the ability to execute fluently but omitting at the same time the grand idea that makes music so indestructible, only few musicians can dare and create something special. Well, here you have it.

“Rebel Mind” is truly one of the finest albums of the decade. May you celebrate by supporting this wonderful band that searches for a contract (crazy, isn’t it?) and wish to watch them becoming one of the all-time greatest names of the scene.

Band’s web-site: www.eumeria.com

P.S.: Oh, and “Heirs Of Perils” has become “Secret Places” on the CD. How on Earth could someone forget such a fine piece of art? Thank you Bobby for giving back the keyboard sound its strong position in a band!

Dimitris Starakis

Innosense-Outcast CD review

2011-04-22T22:27:00.000+03:00

Innosense-Outcast CD (Steel Gallery Records)

It is so pleasant to follow a band since its beginning and witness its noticeable innovation.
The readers of Magic Starlight zine will definitely remember the review on Innosense’s demo CD that came out three years ago.
Their debut is a wonderful highlight of melodic Progressive Metal, so refreshing, modern and emotional that will definitely satisfy even the most demanding fan of the genre.

The band features one of my picks in vocals over the last years; I have said it before and will repeat it again: Vasilis Georgiou is one of the finest Prog vocalists that appeared in Greece, gifted with a sentimental voice in the vein of Roy Khan, something that add quality and expression in every band he participates in (he is also the singer in Black Fate, check out the review of their debut HERE). The band combined the dark vibes of the music with powerful parts, while the rhythm breaks and the catchy choruses showcases the bright road that that band is ready to follow

Just listen to the brilliant songs “Mystify”, “Release” and the unique ballad “Seasons Of Oblivion” in order to feel the passionate vocal lines, along with the wonderful music. All other seven tracks are so enjoyable, that leave me with no alternative than to name “Outcast” as the highlight debut of the year!

This is how sentimental Progressive Metal should be performed. I an sure that this CD will find its place in every discography that hosts some of the finest works of the genre.
Well done guys for forcing me to say: this is only the beginning of a bright band!

You can order the album through Steel Gallery Records.
Band’s facebook group

Dimitris Starakis

Until Rain - Pandemic EP review

2011-04-16T00:38:00.001+03:00

Until Rain - Pandemic EP (Steel Gallery Records)

Now this is a band full of talented youngsters! “Pandemic” is the band’s second release, following their debut “The Reign Of Dreams” that came out a couple of years ago and it showcases the high potential that this band showcases! Having already a new singer (Yiannis Papadopoulos) and bass player (Bill Gagavouzis) on the camp, they demonstrate their huge talent with an EP that delivers wonderful Progressive Metal, based on brilliant keyboard and piano lines by a wonderful performer named Lefteris Germenlis.
The band was formed in 2004, in Thessaloniki, Greece, by 14-year old schoolmates, Orestis Fikos (ex-Bassist), Lefteris Germenlis (Keyboardist) and Alex Hughes (Drummer). The band’s first name was “Delirium” and in September 2006 they recorded their first demo entitled ‘Season IX’. A few months later, a second demo, entitled ‘Hopes Forever’ was also released and two years later. Τhe band changed its name to “Until Rain” and released its debut CD. Two year after its release, we now witness a huge progression in the band’s ability to compose magnificent songs! The self-titled track that opens the EP is bombastic and powerful, but the real thrill comes with the astonishing, brilliant track titled “In A State Of Great Depression”! This particular song is a masterpiece, with one of the most wonderful choruses and intelligent musical combinations that I’ve listened to lately and proves that Until Rain have entered the right path that leads to worldwide recognition. “Pictures Of The Past” follows and it is equally brilliant, with sentimental vocal lines, brilliant riffs and catchy melodies, while the whole atmosphere is so intense!
The listener can also listen to two radio edits of the songs “Pandemic” and “Departure”, while the EP features also an acoustic version of the highlight song “Adaptability” (originally featured on the debut CD).
Until Rain really filled me with enthusiasm and I am already anticipating their next effort!
You can purchase pandemic through Steel Gallery Records.
Band’s mySpace profile

Dimitris Starakis

Leviathan - At Long Last, Progress Stopped to Follow CD review

2011-03-05T01:07:00.003+02:00

Leviathan - At Long Last, Progress Stopped to Follow CD (Independent Release)

Yes, it is true. The 6th album from the gifted Colorado Progsters is a reality and when I threw a quick glance at the album' s credit, I was surprised that Ronnie Skeen wasn't credited as a member or a composer! John Lutzow is now the man behind the compositions, while John Sellers accompanies him in the guitar parts.

So, after this significant change, I was extremely curious to listen to the new stuff. After several spins, the listener can realize that Leviathan are meant to be always unique. The new album is an ideal soundtrack for the cold, rainy winter days and nights.

Sounds that touch the inner self, while the vocal lines are tenderly fit with the melodies, the new CD from the band really contributes a wonderful sample of a genre that remains artistic and free of boundaries. Songs like “Vanity Might Protect”, “Acapello Gold”, “Forsaken, Forgotten, for Nothing” and “Memorized Fairytales” are so emotionally intense and wonderfully structured that satisfy the demanding listener. I would also suggest to pay attention to the solos of the song “Forsaken...” since the strong melodies are a wonderful, dreamy experience!

I also enjoyed the heavier moments of the album, such as the song “Third Rail to the Third World” which begins with an intelligent riff, while the lyrics are pretty inspiring and “politically-active”. The opening track,”Blue Screen of Death-THC EMP part I” is also another highlight, with the sing-a-long chorus and the majestic riff to prove that Leviathan are present again.

The new Leviathan CD includes also a superb instrumental entitled “Acapello Gold” which is definitely one the band’s most wonderful compositions! I really cannot hide my enthusiasm when I witness bands recording strong instrumental and not just another “filler” for their album. Well done guys!

I am pretty sure that the new CD, “At Long Last, Progress Stopped to Follow” will satisfy the fans of the band and will also attract new ones. You can buy the album for $15.00 US (International Shipping included), via Paypal to the following address: inkpenexor@msn.com
Band’s web-site: www.leviathanresurrected.com

Livesay - Awaken The Giant CD review

2011-01-29T17:14:00.001+02:00

Livesay - Awaken The Giant CD (Shredguy Records)

Now this was the big surprise of 2010! I am familiar with Livesay’s previous releases, beginning from the album “Under The Table“ (released on tape format) until the “Darkest Hour” CD. To be honest, Gregg’s albums were missing some grandiose tunes that would establish him as an important composer. But in “Awaken The Giant” things have rapidly changed. A spectacular CD indeed, featuring 8 songs that will definitely satisfy every fan of guitar-driven Hard Rock/Metal music. Gregg delivers two amazing instrumental tracks on the album entitled “Aphasia” and “Dance Of the Egyptian King” and showcases his devotion to Neoclassical Metal music, combined with many eastern influences. It is pure pleasure to listen to such a fine guitarist, in times where virtuosos are still handled as “egomaniacs” from some narrow-minded critics and fans.
Including songs like the bombastic “Tower Of Silence” with a storming riff that bursts into the song and transforms it to a metallic hymn, the splendid tribute to the unforgettable eastern-influenced tracks “Flesh & Blood”, to the ABSOLUTE Mega Opus titled “The Agonist” (a 12-minute hymn which fairly earns the title of the “Song Of The Year”!), Livesay’s latest effort should receive worldwide success. Featuring singer Dean Sternberg(ex Into Eternity, Toby Knapp) which does a fine job, the band shouts that qualitative and inspiring Metal music is not dead! My enthusiasm is surely intense, since I feel so pleased to listen to this CD again and again!
I believe that “Awaken The Giant” is by far the heaviest and most wonderful Livesay release and I hope that Gregg will continue to compose songs in this very favorite style of mine.
Do not neglect this CD by any means. It is one of the greatest albums of 2010 and a resurrection of a band that has a lot to contribute to the scene! You can buy the album here. Livesay’s mySpace and facebook page.
Dimitris Starakis

Fortress Under Siege – Promo 2010 review

2011-01-27T13:07:00.003+02:00

Fortress Under Siege – Promo 2010

Now this is an important resurrection for all those nostalgic fans of Greek Power/Progressive Metal. Fortress under Siege are back with a new album, after 18 inactive years! For those who are not familiar with the band’s history, I must remind to all that they formed back in 1992 by Fotis Sotirpoulos (Guitars) and John Vasilakis (Guitars) after the split up of Gladiators (another legendary and qualitative Power metal band that never had a proper release). With the addition of Michael Smeros in vocals and Nick Dedes behind the drum kit, FUS invited bassist Aris Matheakakis and started recordings for their debut EP, which originally came out on tape format, but later released in 1996 as a self-titled mini CD from Metal Mad Music. In the meantime, Vangelis Xatziandreou (Bass) and George Georgiou (Keyboards) joined the band and gave several live performances.
Although inactive since 199,8 FUS continue composing and finally reunited in 2009, with the addition of drummer Spiros Zenebisis on October 2010.
The band released a three-track promo that gives a brief example from their 10-track new CD and they currently searching for a record deal. Their newest creations are sentimental, Power?Progressive Metal samples of their creativity and it’s so wonderful to realise that their talent remain unchanged.
“Deeds Of All Disgrace” begins with a melodic intro, followed by a storming change, while Smeros’ vocals are powerful and melodic, a distinctive trademark that characterize the band. “My Foulest Sin” combines the basic keyboard melody with a fast-paced rhythm section and is quite inspirational, while “Gods Of War” is the heaviest track of all, with grandiose chorus and majestic, pompous parts and wonderful guitar leads.
Currently (December 2010), FUS have finished recording and mixing of their new album.
Some other indicative song names are: , "The Mortal Flesh Of Love", "Gods Of War", "Alexander", "Last Temptation" and "Night Caress".
I believe that every fan of good Power/Prog Metal music should welcome Fortress Under Siege back and encourage them to release soon their comeback CD! They surely don't deserve getting a bad press, having such wonderful songs! Contact the band: FORTRESS UNDER SIEGE, c/o Ioannis Nikolakopoulos, P.O. Box 29 , GR 19300, Aspropyrgos Attikis, Greece.  E-mail: fortressundersiege@gmail.com
Band’s Reverb Nation page: http://www.reverbnation.com/fortressundersiege
Dimitris Starakis

Artizan – s/t EP review

2010-08-18T14:36:00.002+03:00

Artizan – s/t EP (independent release)

To be honest, this EP can sum up a whole theory on modern Metal music: Minimalistic approach can be intuitive yet refreshing. It’s so encouraging for the listeners to enjoy three wonderful musical creations of melodic and pompous Power Metal. Artizan showed the world their “manifest”. Drummer Ty Tammeus and vocalist Tom braden, known from their participation in the renowned US Prog metal band Leviathan (during their first EP and Deepest Secrets Beneath” days) really establishes the band’s reputation. Artizan may not follow a definite Progressive route on their musical approach, but focus on catchy songwriting with strong memorable vocal line and riffs. The result is wonderful and all three songs are a pleasure to listen to. Tom’s vocals are strong and contain that distinctive tone that usually follows the guitar line and makes the band’s sound much more solid and focused. I also have to give credit to Jim Morris and his splendid production; the band recorded the song at t Vision Sound, Orange Park, Florida and the mastering was done at Morrisound Studios, Tampa, Florida, USA, so they definitely picked the right option.
The good news also is that the band signed a contract with Pure Steel Records and their debut album is expected to be release in early 2011. So, you can buy their debut EP via their website or via iTunes instead of waiting for the first full-length and really enjoy an extremely promising US metal band!

Dimitris Starakis

Matthew Mills - The Neoclassical Journey Remastered 2010 CD review

2010-07-10T13:06:00.004+03:00

Matthew Mills - The Neoclassical Journey Remastered 2010 CD (Matt Mills Music)

One thing crossed my mind when I got Matthew's fifth solo CD in my hands: "Good to have you back, Man!". For all of us who cannot attend Matthew's shows and guitar clinics, his albums prove that Neoclassical Metal still has some loyal and talented "servants". After I listened to "The Neoclassical Journey", I believe that probably is his best solo effort. The talented virtuoso contributes his finest guitar work in splendid songs like the opener "Thoughts Of Time", which once again highlights his favorite songwriting style: strong, catchy and melodic riffs combined with astonishing guitar cadenzas that established his reputation over the years. "Dark Matter part 2" is deeply emotional, sentimental and European-flavored song, with strong Baroque influences. Matthew reaches the limits of his performance and always tries to set new standards for his favorite musical style. Its difficult to follow a Neoclassical Metal path without being repetitive but Matthew proves this opinion wrong. Just listen to the song "Night Time": Melody and atmosphere combine smoothly and the result is wonderful. For all the above reasons, I cannot stop listening to Matthew's musical creations, even though I am not a guitarist, so that means a lot.
"The Neoclassical Journey features also two guest appearances: David Shankle (DSG, ex-Manowar) contributes two solos on "Dragon's Fire", while Joe Stump delivers his distinguishable guitar solo in the song "Fire Storm". For all arpeggio fanatics, the closing track of the CD, "Arpeggio Travel part 3" ends Matthew's "arpeggio trilogy" that began in his second album titled "Neoclassical Rock guitar" delivers his insane performance and makes everyone ask for more! "The Neoclassical Journey" is a highlight of modern Neoclassical Metal, proving that the genre still stands strong. You can buy the album through guitar9.com or digitally download it via iTunes. Matthew Mill's official web-site

Dimitris Starakis

Arryan Path – Terra incognita CD (Pitch Black Records) CD review

2010-07-07T10:20:00.000+03:00

Arryan Path – Terra Incognita CD (Pitch Black Records)

I’ve been following Arryan Path’s career since its early stages and I was fortunate to receive their newest album which should be already considered as the band’s highlight. At the same time, I was curious to find out why this band chose this particular name and I asked the singer of the band, Nicholas Leptos, if the band is connected to any racial segregation theories. Nicholas replied back to me immediately, assuring me that Arryan Path has nothing to do with hate doctrines. I was satisfied to know this, since Magic Starlight ’zine is not associated with extremists and does not support racial hate at all.
“Terra Incognita” begins with one of the finest songs ever composed by the band. “Cassiopeia” is a solid and uplifting Power metal tune, featuring, along with Nicholas’ splendid vocal performance, Vagelis Maranis of Sanvoisen fame! The “vocal duel” is a remarkable effort and really places Cassiopeia among the greatest songs that were released in 2010! The album was recorded and mixed at Maranis Studios in Germany and the band manage to feature Vagelis in the song, while they also gave us the opportunity to realize that he is always in great vocal shape.
Another favorite of mine is “Open Season”: majestic and triumphant, with wonderful chorus, full of glorious emotion, it definitely brings to mind the finest moments of US Power Metal! The self-titled song of the CD incorporates folk elements of Eastern and Greek music, with the outcome being refreshing and interesting. Moreover, it reflects the intention of the band for broaden mind inspirations and experimentation, something which will not keep them stagnant. “Ishtar” is another pick of “Terra Incognita”, with the Eastern music influences being dominant once again. Some other favorite songs of mine are “Elegy” (melodic, vividly emotional and atmospheric again), “Angel With No Destination” (check out the galloping chorus) and “The Mind” (catchy guitar riff and overall a more simplistic song, yet the same interesting as the others). Every time I listen to an album from the beginning to the end without a single pause or skip, I know it’s a good one. Definitely the best effort from the Cypriots…till the next one (this is a prediction, guys don’t let me down)! Order the CD from their label’s website. Band’s mySpace profile:
Dimitris Starakis

RagenHeart – S/t CD review

2010-07-02T12:19:00.003+03:00

RagenHeart – S/t CD (Metal On Metal Records)

Yes, it’s been already almost 4 years since the release of the band’s first demo release titled “In The Name Of God” and time has finally come for this superb band to release its first album. I always distinguish RagenHeart from the average Power Metal bands since they have something special that I really cannot describe it completely. I think it has to do with their music attitude in composing songs that stress emotion, melody and lyricism. Their self-titled debut now prepares the ground for a great career, if they overpass the obstacles that a newcomer band faces in today’s music industry (lack of sources to fund their recordings, poor distribution and a few more). I was from the very beginning obsessed with John Koroneo’s voice: touching, expressive and melodic, plays an important role in the band’s musical structure, while Angel’s fire-blazing guitar work is the band’s trademark. Moreover, RagenHeart compositions ranked them among Greece’s brightest hopes. The album includes re-recorded versions of the tracks featured in their brilliant demo, but also new songs like the opener “Illusion Of Life”, which prepares the ground for the rest of the album. The Eastern music - influenced intro “Winds From The East” and the majestic “Talos” showcase the quality that the Athenian quintet has. “Black Gold” is the darkest RageHeart song and will satisfy the fans that want them with a stronger edge. I also loved the re-recorded songs since the production is better, as expected, with the needed clear and powerful sound. It is really encouraging for the fans not to witness and dull or weak song in a debut, so this is the greatest advantage of this album!

Allow me to feel overwhelmed by the song “Here I Am”. I am pretty sure that if this power ballad was released during the 80’s, it would surely become a huge success. Almost no band can capture the shivering feeling that such a song creates to the listener and I really cannot stop praising this divine musical composition. You should definitely check it for yourselves, since the band rearranged the song and added also a powerful break near its end.

RagenHeart raised our expectations by releasing such a debut. I wish that their follow-up will be out soon. The genre needs bands like this, the brightest hope of the Greek Metal scene.

You can buy RagenHeart’s debut via paypal.com through Metal On Metal's shop. It comes in two editions: Regular CD case and Special Tin Case Edition. Special tin case Edition includes 2 exclusive photos, plus the booklets of the normal case edition CD, Price for regular case is 14 Euro and Special Tin Case Edition costs 18.50 Euro (all above prices include postage + shipping rates worldwide). Here's the link: http://www.metal-on-metal.com/shop.html. Band’s official website and mySpace profile.

Dimitris Starakis

Fibonacci Sequence – Numerology CD review

2010-07-02T09:44:00.001+03:00

Fibonacci Sequence – Numerology CD (Fibonacci music / Independent Release)

0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34, 55, 89, 144…..well, you are not reading my futile attemps to write a code or turn Magic Starlight ‘zine into a host for math lovers (well, also math lovers are still welcome here!). What you have just read is the Fibonacci Sequence. Now what is this sequence? Let’s see what Wikipedia tells us about: “By definition, the first two Fibonacci numbers are 0 and 1, and each subsequent number is the sum of the previous two. The Fibonacci sequence is named after Leonardo of Pisa, who was known as Fibonacci (a contraction of filius Bonaccio, "son of Bonaccio"). Fibonacci's 1202 book “Liber Abaci” introduced the sequence to Western European mathematics, although the sequence had been previously described in Indian mathematics”.

So now you got the definition of Fibonacci’s sequence, since you already know the band from Milwaukee, WI that quite amazed me, after listening to their first ever release titled “We Three Kings”. I recently received their debut full-length album titled “Numerology” and since then it is once again my pick when I want to enjoy music that stimulates the soul.

10 instrumental songs cause the desired tension to the mind, which prepares the ground for objective judgement. That is what Socrates believed, so if we accept his opinion, then “Numerology” can act as the gadfly that will upset the status quo in your brain and make you realize that music without vocals is quite expressive and creative. It is really hard to pick up a certain favorite from the album. “Primrose Path” has the most versatile change in a song, from acoustic, groovy style to mystical eastern paths, followed by a sentimental piano solo that makes the song grandiose. “Work In Progress” has brilliant electric guitar and bass work, while acoustic parts and keyboard solos combine so smoothly. “Catlord” can easily become one of the finest and heaviest “hits” of the band. “Io” closes the album with its atmospheric intro and the guitar riffs and solos expresses intensively the word “farewell”. Yes, “Numerology” is a fine piece of art, destined to become an instant classic. I feel so lucky that I have expressed a concern for the band some months ago and believe me, I have already became a fan of their talent. I am sure that you will do the same. Last but not least: “Music without vocals carries the same passion and magic, just let the gadfly free in your mind”. You can (or should I say must?) order the cd through CDbaby or download it via iTunes. Band’s Facebook and mySpace page.

Dimitris Starakis

Innosense's new song, "Revolution Rise"

2010-06-25T09:50:00.002+03:00

Innosense,the great Prog band from Larissa, Greece, uploaded a new track titled "Revolution Rise", which is taken from their forthcoming album. Good job guys!

We miss you so much Ronnie James Dio...

2010-05-16T23:09:00.000+03:00

Our hearts bleed today...we miss our hero, our light in the black, our Dreamer...from now on, our life will never be the same again...I wish my baby daughter will be inspired from your lyrics Ronnie. You are now immortal and we all Fools want to sail away with you...

Your Greek follower, Dimitris

OSV - Chapter Three CD review

2010-05-14T10:26:00.002+03:00

OSV – Chapter Three CD (Independent Release)

The long-awaited third strike from this highly-talented project is out and it managed to exceed my expectations! Steve Sexton, bassist extraordinaire and Garry Oppert, the octopus-drummer have gathered again the cream of the crop and released a fine CD, full of unique musical ideas.
“Chapter Three” features again a solid amalgam of talented guitarists, with the renowned Marcel Coenen (Sun Caged, Pre-Lemur Voice etc.) on top of them. OSV’s latest project includes fine guitar works from skillful guitarists like Achilleas Diamantis, Gianluca Ferro, Borge Olsen, Jonas Tamas and Phi Yaan-Zek. The musical project welcomes also multi-talented Russian keyboard player Sergey Boykov, member of the Estonian/Latvian band Shadow Cry. Sergey’s lines are proving that the music world will enjoy the birth of a new keyboard hero, with some fine melodic arrangements that re-arrange the leading use of keyboards in a band. I was so happy to witness that Sergey contributes some fine keyboard solos in the songs (check out “Perilous Premonitions” and “Strategic Alliance” as a fine example) en route to a leading part in this experimental band. Don’t miss one of the finest keyboardists you’ve listened to lately!
“Chapter Three” is enjoyable from beginning to the end; “Timeless” is definitely a grand pick, while the all-star song “Rhyme Of Reason”, featuring solos from five guitarists, except Marcel, showcases the endless quality that this project has. A-class progressive music, with fusion/experimental musical parts, eastern musical influences (“Seven Times Seventy” is grandiose!), combined with catchy riffs and melody, stuck me on the wall once again! I want to highlight something I will never stop believing: instrumental music should be accepted from all fans since it creates equal emotions, compared to music with vocals. Let yourself free, remove any musical clichés that you might have and enjoy this album to the max. Maybe the best of all OSV releases so far and once again congratulations to Sexton and Oppert for the courage and “mental bravery” to walk against the typical musical paths! You can buy the Cd via cdbaby.com: http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/osv3 . You can also download OSV’s stuff via iTunes. Band’s mySpace profile: http://www.myspace.com/osvchapter3 . OSV's facebook profile

Dimitris Starakis

Info Regarding ordering Innerwish's and Ragenheart's new CD's

2010-04-30T10:41:00.010+03:00

Many people request info regarding two noticable releases that were announced through this blog, so here we are again to make things simpler and easier for you!

Innerwish's "No Turning Back" is available for pre-order through Ulterium Records' shop. Price is 15.00$ without shipping rates. No checkout is needed, if you have a paypal id !! All you need is to follow this link: http://ulteriumstore.bigcartel.com/product/innerwish-no-turning-back

Ragenheart's self-titled debut CD is already out. You can buy it it now via paypal.com through Metal On Metal's shop! It comes in two editions: Regular Cd case and Special Tin Case Edition. Price for regular case is 14 Euro and Special Tin Case Edition costs 18.50 Euro (all above prices include postage + shipping rates worldwide). Here's the link: http://www.metal-on-metal.com/shop.html

Support the bands by ordering their releases!

Hedda – The Calm Before… EP review

2010-04-18T16:26:00.004+03:00

Hedda – The Calm Before… EP (Independent Release)
If you are a US-Metal addict and you’re desperately looking for your daily dose of Americal Steel, then Hedda came to cover your needs. The band from Wisconsin was formed in 2007 by Bassist Jamie Mac and guitarist Kent Herman and began to compose songs for their debut release. On July 2008, Hedda began recording four songs for their first EP "The Calm Before…" and in 2009 the EP came out revealing to the Underground scene the abilities of the band. From the opening song “Never Yield” the band sends their message: Uncompromising, Us Power Metal with triumphant vocals, solid guitar sound and catchy melodic guitar lines. Another favourite of mine was the most melodic song of the EP, titled “Gypsy’s Kiss”. I am sure that Hedda will built their reputation fast since they have the talent to compose fine songs that continue the important Metal heritage that U.S.A. has established over the years. The band is currently offering a new song for free downloading at the following address: http://www.heddatheband.com/HEDDA-media.html and is working for a full-length album that will come out during 2010. The EP costs 5$ for digital downloading and 5$+plus postage if you want it on CD format. Band’s web-site: http://www.heddatheband.com/

Dimitris Starakis

Ragenheart ready to unleash their debut through Metal On Metal Records

2010-04-14T13:00:00.003+03:00

Ragenheart's self titled debut is coming out on April 23, 2010 !

Check out the press release info from their Italian label, metal On Metal Records:

"..and the most recent addition to our roster, Greek RAGENHEART won us over with their superbly played melodic heavy/power metal with some prog metal elements, rooted in hard rock. They had released only 1 demo (in 2006), which garnered enthusiastic reviews from all over the world. Since then they've become a much tighter band and perfected their sound, so the debut album "Ragenheart" offers versatile and passionate music with a usually dark and epic mood, remarkable melodies, fantastic singer with great emotion and range and excellent performance by every musician, topped with clean and solid production. Their music should appeal to fans of CONCEPTION, RAINBOW, MAGNITUDE 9, DIO, EVERGREY, HEIR APPARENT, MYSTIC FORCE, CRIMSON GLORY, WHITESNAKE..."

Fibonacci Sequence – We Three Kings EP review

2010-04-14T12:30:00.003+03:00

Fibonacci Sequence – We Three Kings EP
When it comes to instrumental music, I am always fond of bands that create it with passion! And this particular trio from Wisconsin does it with style! This two-song EP came out during Christmas, in order to spread the word for the band’s forthcoming debut, “Numerology” and it showcases clearly their great talent! Even though the compositions are lengthy, the songwriting is inspirational. Melody, musical expression and improvising guitar solos with fire blazing arpeggios that take the listener by storm when the band decides to “turn the electricity on”! I also love the bass work on these two songs, while Michael J. Butzen is a virtuoso guitarist that forces the listener to pay attention to his wonderful playing. Both songs, “We Three Kings” and “Neap Tide” are constantly in my playlist over the last month and it think that they deserve a place in yours too! It is so rare for an instrumental band to compose such wonderful pieces of music without a single dull moment and they made me also to anticipate for their full-length album! If Progressive Metal/Fusion/Improvising instrumental music meets your taste, then Fibonacci Sequence has it all. If you prefer music with vocals, give them a try and will catch yourself changing your beliefs quite soon! Check out their songs at http://www.myspace.com/fibonaccisequenceband and buy their EP through CDbaby.com or download the songs via iTunes.
Dimitris Starakis

In The Machine Interview and review of the song "Running"

2010-04-13T19:13:00.010+03:00

In The Machine - Running (demo version)

How can someone be totally objective when he receives a new recording from one of his favorite singers? Corey Brown, known from his astonishing performances in bands like the unforgettable Psyco Drama and Magnitude 9, Section 16, Metro Society etc. is back again! In The Machine from Colorado is the latest hot name in the Power/Prog scene and they just released their very first song, titled “Running”, which is already on their mySpace profile. The demo version of the song took me by storm, since it’s solid, dark, crunchy and majestic at the same time! Corey is as grandiose as expected, giving a pompous tone to the wonderful song and really makes it a memorable composition. I really cannot wait for their songs to come and of course their debut album! Check their mySpace profile http://www.myspace.com/itmband and don’t forget to express your support to their talent. Maybe this is the most anticipated album of 2010!

Dimitris Starakis

I recently contacted the band in order to ask them for an interview and drummer Doug Brown was really kind to answer the questions and let us know more about In The Machine...

Tell me how you decided to form In The Machine?

In The Machine came together last fall. We'd all played together in different bands over the years and have been in the same scene for a long time. We've all been friends for awhile and it seems the planets were aligned for us to finally work together on something! Corey had expressed interest in wanting to do something a little different, and was no longer working with Section 16. The timing seemed right so I made a few calls. Within a few weeks the five of us were playing together and wrote a couple songs on the spot!

Why you chose that particular name?

We spent a good month or so pondering different names, and everyone came to the table with some pretty cool ideas. We really liked the idea of "Machine" because playing together felt like a well oiled machine. Things just seemed to click.

Describe to me your influences.

We have a variety of different influences in this group! Some we all share are Alice in Chains, Queensryche, Faith No More, Sevendust and Kings X.

Corey Brown happens to be one of my favorite singers! How lucky can a band feel to have such a gifted vocalist in its marks?

Corey has an amazing talent and I think we're all very psyched to be working with him! Of course he is an amazing vocalist, but he's also very involved in the songwriting process.

"Running” combines might with melody and it receives already positive feedback from Power/Prog enthusiasts. Have you recorded any other tracks as well?

We're actually in the process of recording the full length album! I believe the plan is to release a couple more tracks via the internet within the next couple months to give the fans some idea of what they can expect.

Are there any offers from record companies to release your songs? Do you also plan to give it a digital release?

Currently we're self producing the album. We're in a unique situation because one of our guitarists Eric Madrid owns and operates EHarmonic studios out here in Colorado. We're very fortunate because we're not under the usual stresses of a typical recording situation. We can focus on doing things the way we feel. We are shopping

the demos around and hope to secure a distribution deal once the full length album is done. We will also release it digitally!

You recently gave your first concert. Have you had any proposals to attend any big metal events?

The first show was amazing! We are in the process of booking some pretty big shows and would love to play some of the metal festivals like Prog Power.

When shall we expect your debut release?

The plan is to have the full length album done by the end of this summer/early fall (2010)

How difficult is it for a Power/Prog band to survive in the metal scene?

I think most Power/Prog fans are some of the most loyal and devoted people I've ever met. When they find something they like they support you and make the effort to come to the shows and buy the albums even if it is something hard to find. That's what keeps it alive. In terms of current trends it can be difficult at times to get the music out there, especially in America. But I think alot of people are starting to come around and some of the newer mainstream bands have progressive elements. Musicianship is starting to be appreciated again.

Which current releases do you listen to nowadays?

I know the band has been listening to the latest Alice In Chains record "Black Gives Way to Blue" quite a bit. I've also been listening to the latest Queensryche album "American Soldier". The latest Kings X album rocks, and I'm looking forward to new Sevendust.

Add anything you may want.

For the latest news on IN THE MACHINE visit

www.myspace.com/itmband

www.itmband.com

http://signmeto.roadrunnerrecords.com/inthemachine

IN THE MACHINE:

COREY BROWN: Vocals

JSIN ELLIOTT: Guitars

ERIC MADRID: Guitars

IAN RINGLER: 12 String Bass

DOUG BROWN: Drums, Vocals

Innerwish signs with Ulterium Records

2010-04-01T12:57:00.006+03:00

Ulterium Records are very proud to announce the signing of the Greek melodic power metal band Innerwish to the label. The bands new album "No turning back" will be released May 28th in Europe and North America. The mixing of the album was done by Fredrik Nordstrφm [In Flames, Hammerfall, Dimmu Borgir] at Studio Fredman, and mastering was handled by Mika Jussila [Nightwish, Children of Bodom, Stratovarius] at Finnvox Studios.'

"No turning back" track listing:

01. The signs of our lives

02. Chosen one

03 Burning desires

04. No turning back

05. Sirens

06. Save us

07. Last breath

08. Lawmaker

09. Welcome to my world

10 Kingdom of the prime

11. Full of lust

12. Live for my own

Head over to the bands official myspace profile to check out the entire opening-track "The signs of our lives" as well as some more samples from the album: www.myspace.com/innerwish

Innerwish are confirmed to perform at this year's edition of Brainstorm Festival http://www.brainstormfestival.com/ in Apeldoorn, Netherlands, and a tour of Greece is planned for early June.

Schubert's "Ave Maria"by Steve Shannon

2010-03-22T09:08:00.008+02:00

Gifted guitarist Steve Shannon just uploaded on youtube.com his rendition of Franz Shubert's "Ave Maria". Check it out and support his efforts: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7seCd_t2HAM
http://www.facebook.com/steveshannonnetwork
http://www.myspace.com/steveshannon

Dofka – Humanity Bleak CD review

2010-03-21T11:17:00.002+02:00

Dofka – Humanity Bleak CD (World Nations Records)
Yes, it’s true. West Virginia-based metallers have been preparing the ground with some live shows in the area and their new album is finally out. It’s been 20 (!) years since “Toxic Wasteland” was out and in the meantime Jim offered us very few but marvellous pieces of Metal music such as the unrepeatable, extraordinary Psycho Scream project (with Tim Aymar) on vocals. Jim still is in my humble opinion one of the most innovative virtuosos of our beloved music since he always maintain his style but manages at the same time to create original music with fluent technique. I could write endless line’s on Jim’s guitar playing since he had a tremendous impact on me throughout the years. However, the new album, “Humanity Bleak” was not a pleasant surprise for me. I realised the new Dofka CD follows a current direction in their style that doesn’t appeal to me. I am reffering to the mixture of death growl vocals that are mixed in most of the songs with clean and melodic ones. Dofka’s new singer Andrew D'Cagna has a fine melodic voice, but when he starts his guttural vocals the whole image is destroyed. And it’s a pity since thankfully the CD contains some songs that doesn’t include this “mix-to-match” vocal situation like the wonderful “Tragedy Remains” a few growls doesn’t ruin this great song), the splendid "World On Fire”, "Blood Runs Black" (outstanding mid-tempo hymn!) and the self-titled song (just listen to what kind of brilliant riff Jim composed here!) . These above mentioned songs show to us that Andrew’s voice is fine and doesn’t need growl vocals to spoil the whole picture. On the other hand, a Power Metal hymn like the song “Second God” left me with mixed emotions since on the chorus, the death metal vocals didn’t really let me to enjoy to the max the outstanding guitar work that Jim did once again. Jim Dofka’s solos are truly out of this world since his musical intelligence is proved here once again! But in songs like “Immaculate Lie” the death metal vocals truly doesn’t bring out the grandiose music that Jim created. I am writing this review as a long time Dofka fan and not as a reviewer. I long for the day that Dofka follow a clean vocal direction, since that is the way that will unleash their enormous talent. Andrew has the ability to sing properly so this line up has the ability to grow the Dofka franchise. If only they put aside the death metal vocals direction…

Dimitris Starakis

Crystal Tears reveal release info concerning their new album, "Generation X"

2010-03-19T13:32:00.006+02:00

EAN: 4260158170885

Cat. No.: 7H-033-2

Label: 7Hard

Title: Generation X

Artist: Crystal Tears

Produced by: R. D. Liapakis(MYSTIC PROPHECY, FIREWIND, ELDRITCH, CHASTAIN etc.)Recorded, mixed & mastered by: R. D. Liapakis and Christian Schmid(MYSTIC PROPHECY, FIREWIND, ELDRITCH, CHASTAIN etc.)

Genre: Melodic/Power Metal

Type: CD-Album

Release: 18th June 2010

Distribution: H'art-G.A.S./7Hard-world / Underclass-France / Soundforge-Greece / Andromeda-Italy / Cargo Records-UK & Europe

For promo requests and interviews, email: aw@7promo.de

TRACKLISTING
01. The X Generation (3:38)

02. Empty Paradise (4:25)

03. Heroes (3:37)

04. Inner Spirit (4:42)

05. Crystal Tears (4:03)

06. Nightmare Serenade (4:57)

07. Flesh ‘N’ Bone (4:48)

08. Predators (3:41)

09. Rock Until We Fall (4:29)

10. In The Beginning (4:05)

cd band Line-up/Credits

Ian Parry - vocals(HAMMERHEAD, VENGEANCE, ELEGY, ANDRE ANDERSEN, guest in AYREON)

Dimitris Goutziamanis - guitar

Stratos Dionisopoulos - bass

Chrisafis Tantanozis - drums

Produced by: R. D. Liapakis(MYSTIC PROPHECY, FIREWIND, ELDRITCH, CHASTAIN etc.)Recorded, mixed & mastered by: R. D. Liapakis and Christian Schmid(MYSTIC PROPHECY, FIREWIND, ELDRITCH, CHASTAIN etc.)Cover artwork & booklet design by: Meran "Darkmouth" Karanitant(SIX FEET UNDER, HATEBREED, LEAVE'S EYES, SODOM etc.)

Video directed & outdoor photography by: Dimitris Evgenidis.

All music by: Chrisafis Tantanozis

All lyrics by: Ian Parry apart from “Rock Until We Fall” by: Chrisafis Tantanozis

Facts:- Melodic metal of the highest class, with a monster line up- Feat. Ian Parry on vocals (HAMMERHEAD, VENGEANCE, ELEGY, ANDRE ANDERSEN, guest in AYREON)- Produced by: R. D. Liapakis (MYSTIC PROPHECY, FIREWIND, ELDRITCH, CHASTAIN etc.)- Recorded, mixed & mastered by: R. D. Liapakis and Christian Schmid (MYSTIC PROPHECY, FIREWIND, ELDRITCH, CHASTAIN etc.)- Cover artwork & booklet design by: Meran "Darkmouth" Karanitant (SIX FEET UNDER, HATEBREED, LEAVE'S EYES, SODOM)
Planning:- Heavy promotion campaign (radio, print media, online media, video and additional footage)- Rock It Magazine ¼ Anzeige + Soundcheck- Metal Hammer Heft CD + Soundcheck- Rock Hard Anzeige + Soundcheck- Interviews and features in print an online media- Club shows and festival gigs in 2010 all over Europe- Rock/metal print magazine, webzines, radios, TV worldwide- Videoclip is ready “Nightmare Serenade”- Video placing: inStore TV McDonalds, Burger King Kingchannel, Putpat TV- and much more, stay tuned!References:www.myspace.com/crystaltearsgr

http://www.7hard.com/

www.myspace.com/rdliapakis

http://www.ianparry.com/

www.myspace.com/ianparrytheartist

http://www.darkmouth.com/

www.myspace.com/karanitant

http://www.music-factory.eu/

www.myspace.com/musicfactory_studio

Highlights:
* Upcoming: Rock It Magazine ¼ Anzeige + Soundcheck * Upcoming: Metal Hammer Heft CD + Soundcheck * Upcoming: Rock Hard Anzeige + Soundcheck * Upcoming: Cover Page inHard Magazine, Interview, SC * Upcoming: Heavy Magazine Soundcheck * Ready: Full Video Clip “Nightmare Serenade” * Tour, CD release CD party / Greece / Location: t.b.a.

Promotion:Print & Online Promotion: Axel Wiesenauer, R. D. Liapakis, TSM, MelodicaRadio-Promotion: Axel Wiesenauer, R. D. Liapakis, TSM, MelodicaTV-Promotion: Axel Wiesenauer, R. D. Liapakis, TSM, Melodica

The new album:

The new CRYSTAL TEARS album is a cleverly written assortment of metal and rock classics revolving around various lyrical topics and themes, a boiling pot of ideas ranging from reality to fiction. The songs are structured around drummer and founding member Chrisafis Tantanozis; a hybrid of melodic metal music with heavy detuned guitars, speed double bass-drums and power hard rock anthems sealed together by an array of modernized melodic power vocals from a vocalist with a huge range and a strong personality differing from all power metal singers around, Ian Parry (ex-ELEGY, who also paid the guys a visit several times to shot their debut video clip, do a couple of photo sessions and other promotional activities). CRYSTAL TEARS have set their horizons towards the international stage working under the full guidance of metal producer/singer R. D. Liapakis (MYSTIC PROPHECY), who was the mastermind for delivering an album with a sound of their own.

The background: Established in late ‘90s, after three demo CDs, their first official release was unleashed through German Pure Steel records in 2006. Some of the band’s highlights are the appearances with JAG PANZER, RIOT and W.A.S.P. and their co-operations with illustrators Joe Petagno (MOTORHEAD, LED ZEPPELIN, ALICE COOPER, PINK FLOYD etc.) and Meran “Darkmouth” Karanitant (SIX FEET UNDER, HATEBREED, DIMMU BORGIR, IN FLAMES, SODOM etc.), producer R. D. Liapakis (MYSTIC PROPHECY, FIREWIND, CHASTAIN, ELDRITCH etc.) and Grammy nominated producer Chris Tsangarides (JUDAS PRIEST, THIN LIZZY, GARY MOORE, DEPECHE MODE, IAN GILLAN, OZZY OSBOURNE, BRUCE DICKINSON, HELLOWEEN, MALMSTEEN etc.). For work samplers, please, advise the links below.

The epilogue: CRYSTAL TEARS are famous for their live appearances and their dedication to music. Having being reviewed, interviewed and referred by the Greek official Press and globally quite often, the band tries hard to earn a place among the pantheon of rock world.

Contact:
Axel Wiesenauere Mail: aw@7promo.de
7Hardc/o 7us media group

GmbHMarkstr. 1271364 Winnenden

Germany
Fon: +49-7195-9078083Fax: +49-7195-9078079
Web: http://www.7hard.com/

John Lutzow from Leviathan reveals that Leviathan will stay alive afteir their brand new release!

2010-03-12T15:56:00.006+02:00

13 years after their last studio effort, entitled “Scoring The Chapters”, one of the most charismatic US Power/Progressive Metal bands return with a live CD/DVD. Leviathan from Colorado, have just released their first live album, “Resurrected” and guitarist John Lutzow, reveals more details concerning the release but also the band’s future.

How did the Leviathan reunion come about?

The live shows were basically a natural progression for us to go back in time and attempt to begin again where we left off when we went our separate ways in 1998. The last "Braver Since Then" record we did brought Trevor Helfer back into the band with Derek Blake and I. Ron Skeen and I have remained in contact with each other after the Leviathan break up. I have asked him to come record with us or play out many times. He always turned us down until we found Jeff Ward. It was very difficult to track him down. He had moved back to Texas with his family. I found a phone number for his dad and was able to get a message to him. From that point on it wasn't about a live DVD or anything. It was mainly just to record together again for a new studio album. Live performances or rehearsals are obviously difficult when the band members live thousands of miles apart. So for a band like us just getting to play with great musicians again was the main motivation. I feel Leviathan finally had reached the pinnacle in our band chemistry and talent on our Scoring the Chapters album. I just wanted to experience what we could do now if given the chance. You don't find those connections very easily in life so it was worth twelve years of waiting to get to play as Leviathan again. So we are working on the new album and that will be a continuation of where we left off.

What does the new DVD/CD contain?

The DVD portion of the set contains the full live concert, bonus tracks and a photo collage of the history of leviathan. I wanted to add many more things to the disk but ran out of space on a single layer DVD. The budget did not allow me to do everything I wanted so I have many extras for a future release to friends that want to see more. The CD only contains the live songs. I only chose to put the CD in the package as a bonus. It is more a supplement to the DVD. Making the DVD was the most time consuming project I have ever worked on. It was a learning experience. I think once I got it done I finally was getting a grasp on how to work with editing and syncing everything together. Once again. I wish I could do it all over again. Next time, maybe?

Tell me your impressions from your live gigs? Did you have a chance to meet old friends and fans of the band?

The whole week we did the live shows seems like a blur and a dream. It all happened so fast. Jeff flew in from Texas on a Wednesday. We practiced that night with the band. That was our first full band practice since 1998. The next day we played a private show at Vikan auditorium and began recording. On Friday, we opened up the doors for a free all ages show. This was a big deal for us. I don't think Leviathan ever got to play more than a handful of All ages shows through out the years. Giving our families a chance to see us play was a major reason for doing all of this. We recorded most of the audio that went to the live set, that night. The next night was our show at the Buffalo Rose. The Saturday show is where we filmed most of the video that went into the set. Sunday morning Jeff flew back to Texas. It was a very busy week for sure.
It was great getting to see each others families. After we broke up, many of us quit playing music for a while so our families never got to see us play. All of our children got to finally see us play. They finally saw the reality of what their dads did with music. That part of it was worth the whole thing. People came out that I hadn't seen in ten to fifteen years. There was even a few people that drove in from other states to see us. It was like a family reunion or something.

Do you plan to give more concerts in the near future?

I would love to play more shows. We are playing a DVD release show locally here on April 10th. It will be a Leviathan/ Braver Since then show. Jeff can't make the show because of school so Derek and I will be singing lead on the Leviathan songs. Ron will be playing with us so that will be fun. The only problem to playing more shows as Leviathan is overcoming our geographic distance hurdle and scheduling. Jeff and I both are in school and work full time. Ron runs his anodizing shop and a motorcycle racing business. Derek and Trevor both work full time and have families. Derek and I have always talked about going to Europe and playing acoustic shows if it wasn't possible for the whole band to go. So no matter what, I will come to Europe next year after I graduate. Leviathan really wants to play some of the music festivals next summer, but the money isn't there for us to be able to pay for it. We are hoping to find a label that will believe in us enough to give us a chance to play where we sell most of our music. That is Germany, Greece and Japan.

Give us details on how can someone order your new release and also the names of some shops and distributors.

Anybody interested in purchasing the DVD set can buy it direct from the band. Contact us at inkpenexor@msn.com. The price is $15 US. Shipping is included. They can pay via PAYPAL. The distributors that have order product from me so far are Hellion Records, No Remorse, Pure Steel and Laser's Edge. The Set is also available at CDBABY.com and Digstation.com.

Many fans of yours want to know if you plan to work together for a studio album.

Yes, we are working on the new album right now. All the songs are already written. The whole Reunion thing has really been an inspiration for me. Once I had to start learning our old songs again it really put things into perspective for me as a song writer. The old songs took me back to where I was as a musician and song writer and woke me up to where I need to be. Within a few months of learning the old songs I had written three brand new songs. These songs are the heaviest and most technical songs I have ever played. So for the new album I am trying to do the recording process differently than I have in the past. All of the Braver Since Then albums I have recorded over the last decade have just been studio albums. We recorded them, then once the CD was finished we learned how to perform them for live shows. Now, we are trying to go back to the old days when we would be playing all of the songs as a band then recording them. I have done rough demos of my songs so that the rest of the band can learn what I am doing and establish their parts. Many of the songs will be sent to Jeff without the lyrics structured so that he can arrange the vocals the way he wants. This is a very big departure for me. In the past I used to do everything myself and hand everyone a finished song. A couple of Ron's songs for the new album were tunes we used to play as Leviathan in the beginning, back in the early nineties. These songs were never really recorded or released.
The new Leviathan CD will take over right where we left off after Scoring the Chapters. I promise fans it will be heavier, more technical than anything we have ever done. I will be posting updates for the new album as they happen on our web site. http://www.leviathanresurrected.com/

Dimitris, Thanks for helping us reach former Leviathan fans and hopefully some new ones.

Dimitris Starakis

The new Leviathan Live CD/DVD "Ressurected" is finally out!!!

2010-03-09T09:55:00.003+02:00

Leviathan announce that the long-awaited live DVD and CD Ressurected" is ready!!! Price is 15$ including shipping worldwide and you can pay via paypal to: Inkpenexor@msn.com

GRAB YOUR COPY NOW!!!!!!

Leviathan reveal details for the forthcoming Live CD/DVD release

2010-01-27T09:32:00.004+02:00

Leviathan announce that the long-awaited live DVD and CD is done and is currently reaching the hands of the manufacturer! The product is expected to be ready by the 15th of February 2010.The live CD includes 66 minutes of brilliant music, while the DVD features the latest 90-minute live performance from the band's reunion, ...plus previous Leviathan shows, 3 (!) unreleased songs, an audio pictorial and many more! The release will be a double disk Digi-pack and it will cost 15$, a real value for money! You can pre-order the new leviathan effort at jlutzow@adt.com (paypal accepted! Ask for exact shipping rates and the paypal id)

Black Fate – Deliverance Of Soul CD review

2010-01-14T11:43:00.002+02:00

Black Fate – Deliverance Of Soul CD (Astral Records)

It’s been already 7 bloody years since I last held in my hands a brand new release from Black Fate. The band from Larisa have finally made it and released their new album, a work that again forced me to bow in front of their talent. I have already reviewed their songs in my blog (check it here) but I must add also that, after two years since the very first time I’ve listened to them, they still sound original and inspiring! Vasili’s voice is simply amazing and truly emotional and it is totally encouraging for all of us, the fans of the band, that they are active again! Black Fate have also released their first official video clip. while I strongly recommend you to obtain their album and enjoy soulful Power/Prog music with no clichés in it! I think the conditions are helping the band to make a brand new start and unleash its talent to the world. They have the quality to progress and reach wider and worldwide audiences. “Deliverance Of Soul” is faultless, without even an dull moment in it so please consider it as one of the highlight of the Greek scene! Good luck guys, you have all the needed talent and even more than that!
Band’s mySpace profile: http://www.myspace.com/blackfateband

Dimitris Starakis

Magic Starlight runs the official Leviathan Facebook page! Hop In!!!!!

2009-12-11T10:58:00.005+02:00

Leviathan Official Fan page

Join for the latest updates!!!

Final Assault/Vengeance interview

2009-11-11T10:19:00.007+02:00

Final Assault/Vengeance's rare stuff is out thanks to Texas Metal Underground and I couldn’t resist asking Alexander Robles III for a detailed interview. The charismatic singer replied at once and revealed many forgotten details concerning the band’s past! Texan Metal history unleashed!!

What was the reason that made you release your works? Are you satisfied with theresponse of the fans?

Alexander: Well The main push to release the CD was Scott,(Texas Metal Underground) he inspired me to get this out, mainly the Vengeance stuff. As you know we had a very limited life, I mean the band did. Scott informed me that he was getting a lot of e mails from Europe and I was getting the same responses myself, so I just happened to have a copy of the music from both Final Assault & Vengeance, when Scott said he could have his tech guys clean it up and we could release it over seas, Man I was all for it. The whole process started a couple of years ago, late 2007. Scott and I exchanged e mails daily, along with phone calls and pictures of the bands. I suggested to Scott to name the CD Final Vengeance, by using both bands names along with, well, the end of that era, it tied in nicely. The art work was also and idea I had, my lyrics have a religious theme to them, I use God and my faith to influence my decisions, it's work well for me. As for fan response, Man it's been great! all the reviews along with yours have been just overwhelming. I never thought we would ever get to show the world our music, I thank God for the blessings he has bestowed on us. I know some of the tunes on the CD may sound creepy, but that's just some of the experiences that are real, let us not be fooled there is good and bad out there.

Describe me the enthusiasm that was vivid through Texas, back in the middle 80’s, regarding all these youngsters who were starving to play metal.

Alexander: When I was around 18 I got introduced to some rock bands via 8 track, (ha,ha) my best friend at the time had a good selection of bands like Kansas, early Black Sabbath, Rainbow etc. One night he came over and brought Hell Bent for Leather (Judas Priest) over, that was it, I was hooked. I practiced every day, bought every album and from that point other big name bands came into my collection. Just like me others followed in the same way. I never knew really I could sing, I did have the high vocals and could carry low tones as well, in my mind I thought that's all I needed, I was wrong so wrong, with Final Assault #1, I think we were one of the first to original material after that all jumped on board. The younger fans took to us like we were stars, I mean autographs, pictures weird phone calls etc. Many young kids took up playing just to have a chance to play a show with us, man who would've thought it would explode from there.

Who were your musical idols and influences?

Alexander: Vocally as I said before Rob Halford started it all for me, then I diversified, I got into Dio, Geoff Tate, and others (my secret) you could probably tell when you listen to our songs. I never try to settle on one style vocally as you'll listen Final Assault material is quite different from the Vengeance stuff, I have been working on some new material that you'll soon be hearing in the months to come, just stay tuned.

Which Texan bands were you picks?

Alexander: Ah, wow what a large selection I have, well, I can truly say Helstar, Pantera, and............ I guess that's it, everyone else was good and I have a lot of respect for them and what they accomplished, I think now for me they were not as much an influence as the bigger bands were.

To my ears, Final Assault was more raw-sounding than the Vengeance material. Which are the differences between the two projects?

Alexander: Final Assault was a raw band to start with, we didn't find our legs until later, don't get me wrong some of the stuff we had was awesome, but it just wasn't refined enough I wanted things musically that weren't possible in FA, due to different personalities and music limitations. When you here Vengeance you hear what should have been all along. At least for me, I pretty much had control over lyrics and haunting the stuff up. I think if we had more funding we could have done it up big time.

Why Vengeance didn’t release any demo? Are there more songs recorded that didn’tappear on the CD?

Alexander: Vengeance never really had any backing, we scraped money together however we could, that meant some of us had to get jobs.. yuck!! The same went for studio work, if the owner hadn't worked with us, we would had never released even these songs. I can remember some other songs we wrote, I have some very rough recordings of our practice sessions. I think they were in the near completion stage. The ones you'll hear are the ones we kinda liked the most.

Tell me about the live track of the CD, “Awaken The Child”. To which era does it belong?

Alexander: “Awaken the child” came from the 1st FA project, we had many songs during that era, Izzy the guitar player was especially fond of that one so we dusted it off from time to time.

You always chose talented guitar players for your projects. Which one was the ideal to work with?

Alexander: I think both had a spark the other was lacking, let me explain Ruben Vela, was so melodic he had catchy riffs and was easy to play with, I mean the songs just came out ’cause they were not as technical. Izzy, well, he was a master guitarist, he new his stuff, technique, solos I can go on and on, I guess he was more difficult to work with ’cause everything had to be just right. I love them both very much. I really can’t choose between them. They helped me grow as much as I helped them, they pushed each other and that I think was FA's lethal weapon. When we parted ways it was rough I lost some real close friends, it's a shame we have to get old.

Describe me the atmosphere of your live shows. Did you play any covers? Is there any possibility to arrange a reunion or releasing any live concert on DVD?

Alexander: We never played any covers really, I can remember though on one occasion Vengeance did a cover from Black Sabbath's “Sign Of The Southern Cross”. It was fun but very professional, we planned out everything, of course we had some in put from our manager too. On some occasions we had some audio trouble, till this day I think someone did it on purpose. Ruben and I did speak about a get together, and he was all for it, me living in Georgia doesn't help much, all my brothers are in Texas. If I had the means to just take off for a few months and get ready, well then I think we would do it. I do have some early Final Assault on DVD, songs that were never recorded, it was a gig we had with Watch Tower on Thanksgiving Day, it was a huge success.

Do you listen to any new Metal bands? Name me any favourites of yours and anything you may want.

Alexander: Not really, once an awhile some will come my way via Myspace or email, but I'm not really looking out for anyone. I think the stuff that's out now lacks heart and soul, there are a few bands that still deliver, but for the most part the air waves are saturated with junk! I will always go back to my roots when it comes to metal, if you watch TV you'll see some early metal tunes are being used for car commercials and whatever, that goes to show metal will once again come back! I'm just waiting for all the garbage they play now to go out of style. It's just like the 70's stuff, clothes, music, language, all that has come back in style again, even my daughter wishes she was born in the 70's ha,ha. My ultimate favs are Queensryche, Judas Priest, Crimson Glory and you can throw some Dio in there also. I like to listen to early 70's stuff it takes me back when things were not so complicated. Some bands were really good back then, they played with a lot of feeling, that's me also. Let me say it's been a real pleasure doing this for you, I have a lot of love and respect for the people that helped me touch lives through our music and maybe through this interview. Please to anyone out there, were still here, and our music is still here, so if you want drop me an email or comment on our music by all means do so, only you the true metal fans will help keep it alive. Take care everyone, love ya and God Bless.

Dimitris Starakis

Final Vengeance - …Within The Realm CD review

2009-09-25T23:34:00.005+03:00

Final Vengeance - …Within The Realm CD (TMU Records)
First of all and before I review this CD, credits must go to texasmetalunderground.com for being on of the most comprehensive web sites for the rich and endless Texan Metal legacy!
This is the anthology from one hell of a Texan Band named Final Assault which was formed in 1985, in Corpus Christi, Texas and released the four track demo “The first Warning” the same year. Azra Records contacted them after the buzz they created and two songs out of that demo were released on picture vinyl two years later. After lots of problems within the band, legendary vocalist Alex Robles (Alexander III), along with guitarist Ruben Vela found the courage to go on and, after recruiting a new line-up, they released the band’s second demo entitled “The Second Coming”. Unfortunately the demo had poor distribution and only a few copies were handed out to local fans.
1988 brought the rise of Vengeance out of the ashes of Final Assault. With a different line-up, but still with the vocal wizard Alexander III under their mark, the band recorded some songs that never came out on any formal official release…until today! “...Within The Realm” includes Final Assault’s “The Second Coming” demo along with five, never released Vengeance tracks and a live track titled “Awaken The Child”, taken from a sound check recording at Stardust Ballroom Ini Corpus Christi, Texas, back in 1989!
This is the true legacy of these two brilliant bands that delivered astonishing Metal, the Texan way! High-pitched vocals and US Power Metal with extended progressive elements, fiery guitar leads and blistering solos from true virtuosos complete the band’s style! I am totally under the Us Metal influence after the listening of songs like “Chemical Sin” and the unbelievable “M.G. III” (astonishing hymn!). The voice really sends you to Metal Heaven and makes you damn yourself for not being there when all the magic happened!
The Vengeance period showcases once again the bands talent and finds them in the Power Metal field, with the expected musical talent that includes killer riffs and, once again, grandiose vocal parts! To be honest, I prefer the Vengeance era, since all of the songs are exceptional! Even the live track “Awaken The Child” is simply a great musical experience! This release is “buy-or-die” for all those who dig deep in the vaults of Metal history. Don’t expect polished sound here, this is raw, intelligent and most of all, ORIGINAL metal! Get info on how to purchase the CD here: http://www.texasmetalunderground.com/finalvengeance/ Band’s mySpace profile: www.myspace.com/finalvengeancetx
Dimitris Starakis

Russian Power Metallers Eclipse Hunter reveal upcoming release info

2009-09-25T16:30:00.004+03:00

An independent label NewRock Music signed Eclipse Hunter to release their debut album – “ONE” on September, 28th (Russia, CIS & Baltic States). The album was recorded at Black Obelisk studio; mixing and mastering were done by Dmitry Borisenkov (Black Obelisk).
Vladimir Ermakoff (Mechanical Poet, Black Obelisk), Richard Ofsoski (Sedition, Ofsoski), Max Oleynik (Ivan Tsarevich, Anj), Yuri Kondrashov (Melancholy) and Alexey Korovkin (Callisto) also contributed their talents to record this long-awaited album.

Album tracklist:
1. One
2. Freedom
3. I’ll Never Forget
4. Train of Dreams
5. Angel
6. I’m Going Down
7. Lost Symphony
8. Fading
9. Coming Home
10. Awake
11. Eternally

Band's website for further details: http://www.eclipsehunter.net/jpg/one.jpg

Gray Broderick - Realms OF Fire CD review

2009-09-13T10:50:00.002+03:00

Gray Broderick – Mythic Realms CD (Mythic Force Records)
I am always delighted when I get to receive efforts from musicians I truly appreciate. “Realms Of Fire” is another instrumental CD that features the wonderful melodies of Gray’s talent. What I always notice in Gray’s works is that the album flows and each and every song has something to add to the listener’s joy! "Realms of Fire" includes a variety of songs, from fast-paced Neoclassical pieces like “Requiem”, “The Castle” and the self-titled track to outstanding emotional tracks like my favourites “Twilight Prelude” and “Golemn”. It so rare nowadays to discover a guitarist that can compose memorable riffs in each and every song he records and Gray is definitely one of the few chosen ones. The dreamy atmosphere that his albums reflect made me a fan of his work and I am sure that the same feeling will also have every person that purchased his albums. I’ve heard from many people that Neoclassical music has become a cliché and the guitarists that follow this style are becoming more and more repeatable. Well, “Realms Of Fire” proves them wrong! Always support musicians that do not follow the current trends and decide not to follow the direction of the “blowing wind”. I strongly encourage Gray to form a band and compose some vocal songs since. I am sure that the final result will be astonishing! You can check his mySpace profile: http://www.myspace.com/mythicforce and find the links where his CD’s are being sold. Gray is also selling his songs through iTunes. His personal web-site: http://mythicforce.com/home.html
Dimitris Starakis

7th Reign – Fallen Empires CD review

2009-09-03T10:15:00.003+03:00

7^th Reign – Fallen Empires CD (Independent Release)

The ideal outcome for a newcomer band is to show steadily progress on each album that unleashes. 7^th Reign managed to reach that goal and revealed to us an outstanding release, destined to become a Power Metal classic! I remember my comments on their debut CD but now I can assure you that this quartet managed to release an even better album! Melodic, pompous powerful and atmospheric Power Metal is served in “Fallen Empires”, with the mighty voice of Brian Soulard delivering some harsh and high-pitched vocal wizardry! My pick in 7^th Reign, guitarist Marios Panayiotis is in constant great shape, playing some astonishing riffs and solos in brilliant songs like “7^th Reign”, “Betrayed”, and the 10-minute opuses “Deliverance” and “Requiem For The Dead”. I love the Neoclassical attitude that Mario has in his performance, filled also with some Symphonic keyboard parts, something that makes his parts an absolute experience. I strongly believe that “Fallen Empires” is one of the best, if not the best album of 2009, without any single drawback in it! I am not a fortune teller, but I predict that their next album will surely be released under a big record label! Don’t let this CD pass unnoticed, you’ll miss a state-of-the-art! Visit the band’s web-site: http://www.7threign.com/ and their mySpace profile: http://www.myspace.com/7threign

Dimitris Starakis

Edgend - Newcomer Prog /Power band

2009-09-02T10:40:00.005+03:00

if you are into Symphony X, check this talented band and pre-order their album "A New Identity" !

http://www.myspace.com/edgendband

Inner Strength's 1993 album "Shallow Reflections" has been re-released!

2009-08-20T09:01:00.002+03:00

The newly re-mastered and expanded edition of Inner Strength's 1993 album "Shallow Reflections" is now available world-wide through Retrospect Records!

This new release also contains (for the first time ever on CD) 4 bonus tracks from the bands 1991 EP "Within The Dream", including newly recorded vocals by Scott Oliva for the song "Believe (You and I)". These bonus tracks have also been completely re-mixed!!

You can get the CD here:
http://www.retrospectrecords.com/products/inner_strength.html

Rachel Mother Goose interview

2009-08-19T13:22:00.015+03:00

Japan has been always a fascinating musical destination for me and recently I had the opportunity to communicate with Mikka, singer of one of my favorite Japanese bands, Rachel Mother Goose. RMG, the brainchild of guitarist Hideshi Ueki, is ready to release a brand new album this winter and I asked Mikka to give us more info concerning the band. Feel free to support the always amazing Rachel Mother Goose!!!!

When you first joined Rachel Mother Goose? Have you sung in any other bands before?

Mikka: As I remember, it was in the early months of 2003. Till then I joined a few original bands mainly in Nagoya, but they never had a sound like RMG.

You have a great reputation as a band in Japan and you also release new stuff often? Do you enjoy most working in the studio or playing live?

Mikka: I'd love to release a new album as soon as possible. I enjoy working in the studio, since I have unbounded images when we're making the new stuffs. But I love playing live more, because it's very happy when we feel at one with the audience.

Are you satisfied from the sales of your records?

Mikka: No, I'm not. I hope much more people listen to our music.

Tell me about your guitarist, Hideshi Ueki. He is a guitar tutor in Osaka, if I remember well. Is he the leader of the band and how well do you cooperate with him?

Mikka: No, he's not a guitar tutor in Osaka. I always discuss the melody, the lyrics and the setting of the song with him. He writes music but I always give him my ideas or new attempts.

Have you ever thought of releasing your albums outside Japan? You already have a good reputation in Korea…

Mikka: I remember the show in

Korea

clearly. We appreciate the warm and exciting response. We'd love to release our album in many other countries, and of course we'd love to go on a tour. But I have to be able to sing in English better first.

You also sing in another band named Rahu (ラーフ). Could you describe me the style of this band?

Mikka: I started RAHU almost the same time as RMG. If I place RMG to HR/HM, I must say RAHU has the wide-ranging music style, singing in Japanese. Basically it's HR but sometimes pops, sometimes Celtic, sometimes funk.... and often people say it's progressive. RAHU could have horn sections or even dancers in the show! Such a free style music is RAHU's attractiveness.

You released two songs in the last couple of years, "Fiercest Warrior" and "Out From Under", but both of them were published in demo formats. When do you plan to release your new album?

Mikka: We're just working for the new album. I'm not sure if we'll have those two songs in it yet, but I think we will. We'd love to release it by this winter.

Add anything you may want

Mikka: I appreciate that we have the good environment to express our music freely. Thank you for reading. To the members and the fans,

Love,

Mikka

Band's website: http://www.geocities.jp/rachelmothergoose/

Dimitris Starakis

Magic Starlight 'zine on Facebook!

2009-07-23T09:26:00.002+03:00

Yes, we're officialy now on Facebook!
Check us there and don't forget to add us as a friend!!

http://www.facebook.com/magicstarlight

Leviathan are back with a reunion concert and a live CD/DVD

2009-07-10T13:56:00.004+03:00

Yes it's true! The wettest dream of all Progressive Metal fans will become reality!
On September the 19th, Leviathan will be playing a reunion show in Colorado, USA! Featuring vocalist Jeff Ward and John Lutzow along with ronnie Skeen on guitars, the majestic band will record the show and plans to release it also on CD and DVD format!!

The set list, according to John Lutzow, is shaping up to look like this:

Salvation

Friends imaginary

Census of stars

Speed kills

Degenerating paradise

confidence not arrogance

if walls could talk

fear of change

sanctuary

run forever

mindless game control

Leviathan

and bonus

Turning up broken

John Lutzow is taking already requests about pre-ordering or adding more info about the forthcoming Leviathan re-awakening release on: inkpenexor@msn.com Feel free to e-mail him and express your support to the mighty Leviathan!!!!!!

Wicked Waltz – New Track “Man Made Faith” review

2009-07-06T12:25:00.009+03:00

Wicked Waltz – New Track “Man Made Faith”

The talented band from the US strikes back with a newly recorded track! I was really curious to witness their comeback after their magnificent debut mini-Cd “Chapter 1”. “Man Made Faith” showcases the heavier side of the band, with Jason delivering some high-pitched vocal lines, deeply influenced from Rob Halford. Wicked Waltz proves once again that their talent is multi-dimensional and can compose astonishing melodic Metal songs, but also Molten Metal dynamites! I was completely satisfied from the pompous structure of the song and I can already imagine how perfectly the song will fit the band’s live playlist! Well done guys!
I contacted guitarist Micah in order to ask his opinion about the new recording and here’s what he replied: “We had a lot fun recording this song in the studio. Of course being in the studio is always a blast. When you're in there you are able to get a better grasp of the song and are able to come up with different ideas to improve it. We tried a couple new things to give this new recording a different feel than our previous CD (Chapter 1). There's just something about being in the studio that makes feel good about what you’re doing. And of course it feels really good to have people sending us messages wanting to hear the new song. We just hope everyone enjoys it.
There are no release plans for our new material for the time being. We honestly did this mostly for ourselves and to give people a taste of things to come. We have a lot more music to be heard and we will try to get as much done as we can afford. And when we able to have more songs recorded we will release a new CD for everyone to have”. Band’s website: www.wickedwaltz.net band’s mySpace profile: www.myspace.com/wickedwaltz
Dimitris Starakis

Wheelrunner – Bloodpaint CD review

2009-06-29T12:30:00.002+03:00

Wheelrunner – Bloodpaint CD (Emotion Art)

The Athenian trio released its first full-length right before the end of 2008, showcased its talent in the hard Rock roots and it’s quite interesting to see a young band perfoming their favorite music. Wheelrunner was formed in 2001 and two years released also their first 6-track demo. After numerous live performances, the band released in 2003 their second demo titled “Rock 'n' Roll Lover”, including 6 tracks, while in 2004 the band was searching for a label and released a three-track promo, simply entitled “Promo 2004”.

In their debut full-length, Wheelrunner deliver in-your-face hard Rock with energetic and’ atmosphere. The whole result is quite professional, proving that the trio from Athens is really watching their steps. Songs like “Proof Of Love” are sending the message to the fans and prove that the band is really explosive when playing live! I witnessed their energy myself when I attended their headline performance in RETHYMNO ROCKS! Festival #1 and I can assure you that their songs are made for their concerts!

I encourage you to listen to their songs and witness their energy for yourself! Band’s mySpace profile: http://www.myspace.com/wheelrunner

Band’s management: http://www.myspace.com/emotionartmusic

Dimitris Starakis

Bracaglia - Falling Star review

2009-06-19T11:55:00.007+03:00

Antony Bracaglia – Falling Star (Independent Digital Release)

I’ve been following Bracaglia’s steps since 2007 and finally I have been able to download four brilliant tracks from iTunes! His debut effort is entitled Falling Star and features the amazing vocal performance by Erika Tandy. Erika is known from her previous work in the Texan quintet Ignitor and currently handles the vocal parts in Poseidon’s Anger and Drifter – an Iron Maiden cover band. Another guest-star is the gifted keyboard player Michael Troy, who currently tours and records with the one and only Yngwie J. Malmsteen! Bracaglia’s and Troy’s explosive guitar and keyboard duel is reflected in the two instrumental tracks Frenetic” and Thermopylae”, with the outcome being extraordinary!

I was able to scrutinize “Falling Star” and I am pretty sure that Bracaglia is ready to conquer the global Neoclassical Metal scene. Relentless guitar work, flashy neoclassical solos filled with inspiring arpeggios and that distinctive Fender Stratocaster sound give the fans what they really need. Erika’s vocal lines in the song “Falling star” are truly out of this world and surely make her a worthy candidate for the Female vocalists’ Hall Of Fame! Don’t expect any operatic vocals here, Erika delivers a harsh, wide range voice that is ideal for such a demanding music! The same atmosphere is met in the fast-paced “Live By The Sword” in which the combination of thundering, metallic vocals, virtuoso guitar work and wonderful keyboard intro completes a true metal hymn! The only thing that Bracaglia should improve in the future is the production, since his compositions should have a better sound. I am pretty sure that if he signs a record deal, then the world will welcome an inspiring and amazing guitar hero! Support this multi-talented artist (Bracaglia also creates custom overdrive pedals!) and buy his music either from iTunes or from Amazon.com

Bracaglia’s mySpace page: http://www.myspace.com/abracaglia

Dimitris Starakis

Magic Starlight 'zine on Twitter!

2009-05-27T12:43:00.005+03:00

Yes, Magic Starlight 'zine is officially on Twitter!

You can check my opinion on recent purchases and newcomer bands, plus other things as well... follow us!

http://twitter.com/katsuohta

Dimitris

OSV Interview

2009-04-23T00:39:00.006+03:00

Innovative, mind-expanding, remarkably gifted. Cosmetic words for musicians like Garry Oppert, a unique drummer that always tries to express himself through the magical language of music, are never enough. Along with bassist Steve Sexton and with the valuable help from Brandon Vaughn, they formed the project OSV that’s gaining success and reputation as time goes bye! Garry answers the questions and cannot hide his enthusiasm about the forthcoming 3rd CD. Please pay attention to the words of a man that serves the musical spectrum for more than 20 years…

How was the band formed? Why you chose to follow the path of instrumental music?
Steve (Sexton) and I got together and formed the project in 2006. The story began 20+ years ago as together we @ 17 years of age formed the the original band "Knight" that later became the well known underground success "Oblivion Knight". Back in those days we parted ways due to musical differences and as Steve developed Oblivion Knight, I formed the band Virtual Reality and recorded two demo's and had some underground metal success...Steve and I had not seen each other or played together in 20+ years. In 2006 we reconciled our differences and agreed that together along with VR keyboardist Brandon Vaughn we could form an all instrumental project, incorporating some of the latest top end guitarist and that might actually work as a successful project...well the Mission began and OSV's first CD "Mission One" was born....we got more positive feedback than we ever imagined, so we ventured ahead with the new CD "Second Thoughts" and with its well received success thru CDBaby and Itunes we are now starting the bass and drum tracks for the 3rd CD tentatively entitled "Chapter Three."

Which are your main influences and how would you categorize your music?
Well this is a very diverse question...me personally I am a prog metal old school rock/funk guy..Band wise I would say....Dream Theater's early work, Iron Maiden, Fates Warning w/ Mark Zonder on drums..and newer bands like Pagans Mind, Dreamscape, Dali's Dilemma..Lemur Voice...I guess some of these are not so new but still had a major influence on my style...Drummers that impacted me are Neil Peart, Mike Portnoy, Virgil Donati, Thomas Lang...etc etc... the list goes on and I personally try to get better at my drumming on a weekly basis...I am always blown away by how good some of these guys are and how far they can take the instrument.....

How difficult was to combined guitarists from all over the world and inspire them to adopt the band’s style?
With today's technology and being somewhat of a computer "guy" it was very easy...we used sites like yousendit.com to send and receive large wave files and basically work as if we were all here....its an amazing technology that I am sure will be very common place in the near future...and probably already being done in mass....

The language of music is widely accepted. How difficult is to express your feelings with the absence of words?
This to me is easy...as long as the listener is in tune with an instrumental project....I guess some people have to have a vocalist to get the full effect...but I personally have always loved the instrumental side of things..for example if Dream Theater was all instrumental I think they would have had even more success in the prog world over the last 15 years...at some point forcing vocals over prog sections becomes an annoyance to me...but that's only my opinion..there are a few really top end singers that I love to hear out there...Nils from Pagans Mind and Roland who used to sing with Dreamscape come to mind right away...there just are not any Ronnie James Dio's or Bruce Dickinson's out there anymore like the old days...

Are you satisfied with the response you received from the sale figures of your debut?
To be honest it blew me away...I really did not expect us to sell very many....but honestly its been more successful than I ever imagined...

Do you plan any live concerts or it’s difficult to make it true due to lack of present band members?
Unfortunately, I don't see this ever happening...just due to our life style as well as getting everyone involved together...it would be an awesome thing but most unlikely...

I know that you also rehearsed and recorded some tracks featuring Matthew Mills on guitars. Do you plan to invite him again and release some tracks from your collaboration?
This could happen in the future - Matt Mills is a great guitarist...On this project Steve and I did not want to be quite so "neoclassical" in our delivery....we felt that Matt's style would be more of that direction than we had initially planed, so we opted for some other guys who were a little more versatile in their own playing...again Matt is a great player and a great guy.

Tell me about the astral covers you choose for your CD’s. Do you want to connect your music with our galaxy?
This was more my mind set in the beginning and I think Steve has adopted to his as well! (laughing)..... yes we are dreamers and thought-provoking individuals....this is how we see things in our mind’s eye...if the listener see's it that way then we feel you will fall right in to this concept...

Is there any chance of including vocals in your songs, regarding your future releases?
Steve and I are always kicking this around...he is long time friends with John Arch of Early Fates Warning and I have approached Nils from PM about the possibility...but who knows what the future may hold...

Which other guitarists do you plan to invite in OSV?
This my friend is a great question...since "Chapter Three" is now looming we will be on the search....we have two or three in mind right now that we would really like to work with...yet to be determined...

Do you also participate in other projects as well?
My original band Virtual reality has some material that I think would do well with the prog fans....I am trying now to sort thru the older material and some of the newer material to see where we are as for as a new CD release... Hopefully this will come to fruition..

Add anything you may want.
Dimitris, thanks for your time and support..I have been listening to and playing music for a very long time it seems...and in this day and time it is hard to find anyone who will take the time to do interviews or even show interest to the underground bands...you seem to be one of those people....Thank you and God bless..

Dimitris Starakis

Timefall - Into The Shadows CD , Your Days Were Mine Mini-CD reviews

2009-04-18T14:20:00.009+03:00

Timefall - Into The Shadows CD, Your Days Were Mine mini-CD

What an encouraging fact to witness newcomer Power / Prog Metal bands that their talent is taken under serious consideration! Timefall is one of the highlights of the previous year, since they released a brilliant EP, which made every fan of their music to long for a full-length album! The band was formed in the summer of 2006 and the following year they released their debut entitled “Into the Shadows”. Their style is quite melodic Power Metal music and a vocalist (Jonathan Tatum) that is expressive and quite talented. “Into the Shadows” features the 18-minute long epic track “The Last Day on Earth” which showcases the band’s abilities and highlights the essence of a project free from musical boundaries. Definitely a noticeable debut.However, the big step forward for Timefall is their newest EP “Your Days Were Mine”. Unfortunately, the EP includes only two songs, but despite its minimal content, it can easily win the prize of the “EP of the year”! Wonderful musicianship from all band members, full of passion and faultless playing! I was happy to witness that the self-titled track combines the Power Metal might along with Progressive Metal parts, more vivid than their debut. The band still focuses on melody and emotion through their music and this is clearly reflected on the amazing song “If I Failed”, a composition full of Eastern influences (a musical direction that I always adore and Timefall also adopted in the song “Betrayer” from their debut EP). The guitar wizardry of Matt Sheperd and the tremendous vocal abilities of Jonathan Tatum form a powerful duet full of talent and multidimensional abilities, so note down their names; they’ll increase their fame really soon! Power/Prog Metal devotees must discover and support Timefall since they can offer much to the scene and can build a great career next to British bands like Balance Of Power, Threshold and others as well. Check out their website: http://www.timefall.co.uk/ Band’s mySpace profile: http://www.myspace.com/timefall

Dimitris Starakis
P.S.: Jonathan will also be singing in Eumeria’s debut …check out his amazing vocal performance in the song "Heirs Of Peril": http://www.myspace.com/eumeria

Braver Since Then Interview

2009-04-14T09:47:00.013+03:00

It was impossible after tracing John Lutzow not to ask him for an interview, concerning Braver Since Then and of course Leviathan. One of the most talented musicians from Colorado has new music to offer us and his talent cannot be put under criticism. John expresses his statement on Leviathan’s past and split-up, but also shows his enthusiasm on a possible scenario of reforming this extremely talented band again. On the other hand, he explains why Braver Since Then is a band he is proud of. Ladies and Gentlemen, John Lutzow reveals it all…

Since there’s a little bit of mist, concerning the formation of Braver Since Then, could you give us details on this matter?
For some reason, I always knew that I wanted to form “Braver Since Then”, even when I was in Tyrant’s Reign (which later became “Quiet Room”) or my nine years in Leviathan. “Braver Since Then” always stuck with me as a great name. It was taken from a line in Cyrano DeBergerac. Growing up I always remember watching the Steve Martin remake of that story, called Roxanne. This movie really stuck with me and formed my romantic outlook on life. There is so much meaning behind the name “Braver Since Then”, If you know what leads up to that line in the movie you would see where I am coming from. So to me, “Braver Since Then” is not just words. It tells a whole story about wanting something so much and doing everything you can to be recognized and always falling short of the prize, be it love, victory, or any reward because of how things look on the surface. It is a metaphor for how most people in the world are only interested in nicely packaged, easy to swallow entertainment or art while something truly meaningful is right there hidden under layers hoping to be discovered. Like I have said before, It was always my intention to make a band out of the members of Leviathan once we broke up. I have worked with Derek Blake, the vocalist/bassist since high school. He was at one point going to be the singer in Leviathan also but that is a different story.

The initial reaction from a Leviathan fan after the first approach to BST’s works might be surprising. If I ask you to spot the differences between the 2 bands, which ones would they be?
I don’t know. I am a bad judge of music. To me all music either falls into one of two categories. Good music and bad music. To me all of my music is the same style. I am always wrong about the genre or styles. To me I never thought Leviathan was that heavy, but when I would play some for older people they would think it was death metal or something. So to me the only difference between BST and Leviathan are the vocals. Leviathan traditionally had higher metal sounding vocals and Derek’s voice is more alternative sounding. Which I always wanted for Leviathan. I didn’t want to have typical metal sound. The songs themselves are the same.

Which are the main lyrical issues that Braver Since Then deal with?
Most of the writing comes from what would be my diary. When I have things in my head I sit down and write. Later when I need to start putting together songs I work through the words and structure what would be a good amount to convey the emotion I was feeling at the time. That might be another difference between my old stuff and BST. I know how to better edit my thoughts and words. I can condense them down so that there isn’t ten pages of lyrics trying to be stuffed into a 5 minute song. That is a complaint I heard about my Leviathan songs. They were always a little long winded. Now days though I try to test my self as a writer. I need topics, I am not as narcissistic or self absorbed as I used be. I don’t write about my emotions that much anymore. I always was afraid of creatively drying up as a writer. To me the lyrics were always the most important thing. I would put music to lyrics. Most people I know do it the other way around. They write the music then try to throw some words over the top and just hope there is some cohesiveness. As I am older now, I am grateful that I can still write. To me the sign of a good writer has always been if you can be given a topic and write intelligently, passionately and still tell the story with poetry you might be worth something.

Your previous CD’s had no or restricted distribution! Haven’t you tried to solve this problem?
You know that has always been the problem for my music. Leviathan tried so hard to find a good label or distribution. We worked harder than any band in Colorado to be professional. We never got what I feel we deserved. As far as BST goes. I have sent CD’s to every label I could find. The only place that was willing to take a chance was “just for kicks” distribution. They bought a bunch of CDs from me without having heard them. I think they are disappointed though, because they aren’t interested in our new album. So for me, I just wanted to get the music out there and make it available. In my mind I still think if people liked my writing from Leviathan’s CD’s they will like what we are doing now. We are 3/5’s of Leviathan after all. My songs on the last two Leviathan albums were really only BST anyway. Ron Skeen never played on the recordings when we did the albums. So once again the only difference between BST now and Leviathan ten years ago is Derek on vocals instead of Jeff Ward. For now? We are working on that.

Why did you choose “Short On Patience, Burn In Haste” as the title of your current album?
I am glad you asked that question. Patience has always been my biggest weakness. Every bad thing that has happened in my life has come from lack of patience. However the reason for using this title has a more personal significance now. I had already planned to use this title but in the middle of recording the album, I was called away because of health problems with my mother. She ended up passing away one day when I was in session. This definitely put a shadow over everything. I felt guilty that I had not been there for her, all because I was in a hurry to get the album done. Projects haunt me once I start them. I don’t sleep when something is pressuring me. I feel I have to complete things before I can rest.

You chose Itunes to release your new album, but also your previous efforts as well? Why?
This goes back to the other question. It is only for lack of anything better. To tell you the truth I think if Leviathan was just hitting our peak right now we would have sold twice as many albums because of the easy access to music online. We wouldn’t have needed a label. We had a good following world wide back then based on our reputation and constant good reviews of the albums we did on our own. Prospective music fans could have listened to our music online and then made the purchase instantly. They wouldn’t have to deal with going to a shop to only be told they have to order it. So as long as your fans know you have music available, they can reach it.

Do you play live often? Is there any vivid support from your hometown?
BST plays about once a month. That is enough for me. Our biggest disappointment is that we never got to tour Europe and Japan. The local scene in Denver isn’t that good. There aren’t any bands like us right now. Clubs don’t care about us. Even though they all say they liked Leviathan and respected what we did, we still don’t get any favoritism.

Leviathan was a prosperous band and highly appreciated by numerous Power / Progressive Metal fans from around the globe. Describe to me how you joined the band and also some of your most memorable moments.
Prosperous? What do you mean by that. We never made any money. Our only reward was the feeling of being in a great band and knowing that a few people liked our music in Europe and Japan. We know that we sold over 20,000 copies world wide but still never made any money, in fact lost money almost every album. The labels made money but we didn’t. The only project that any of us did that was profitable was Ron’s side project, “Iron Fortress”. Ron got that project paid for and received a few thousand dollars afterwards. As far as how I came into Leviathan, Ron Skeen asked me to join in 1990. Leviathan was a great local band. Everyone I knew all said the same thing. The drums, bass and vocals were great but the Guitars were the weakest link. Ron wanted to change that. He still is one of the most underrated guitarists out there. Before I joined Ron and the other guitarist had such bad tone that you couldn’t hear what they were doing and they would stand in front of their amps and not move. That made it hard for people to be interested in what they were doing. Ron wanted to get a guitarist that was more like the shredders on the scene like, Yngwie, Marty Friedman, Tony Macalpine, Jason Becker etc. So I joined as a hired gun so to speak.

When did you finally realize that Leviathan came to an end?
It ended badly. Just like a cliché, it ended over money. We were probably going to separate after “Scoring the Chapters” anyway. At that point I was doing almost all of the music and Ron was handling the business side of things. He had a growing family and was removing himself from the band. He owned the rights to the name “Leviathan” so the other members and I were going to keep going under BST. That was the plan I had anyway. It didn’t work out because of how badly Leviathan broke up. We broke free from Century Media because they were in breach of contract with us. They promised us many things and never delivered. We started working through the idea of releasing “Scoring the Chapters” on our own. All of the numbers showed us we could release it ourselves and make a profit. We set out to record the album our way, the way we always wanted to. The entire process up until the point where the band separated was a dream coming true. We were all friends and enjoyed being together. We were making what was to us our best music. I got to spend almost a full month at Morrisound studios. I got to do what every guitarist dreams of, it was like a kid in the candy store. What ever guitar or amp I wanted to use I got to go and borrow to record every part. Anything I wanted to try I got to. We finally had a great singer and got to fully utilize our vocal assets with Derek and I doing harmonies. Before we started the project we had everything set to show that if we sold 3000 copies we would be able to pay for the entire project and make money. We lined up distribution before we recorded the first note. Every thing went bad once the album was done due to Century Media playing hard ball with us and Black listing us to the Distributers. They weren’t allowed to buy from us or it would affect their ability to receive product from Century Media. That caused tension among Ron and I due to issues over money. It tore the band apart. BST was supposed to continue but I was so beat down by the music industry I quit playing. So did Trevor and Ron. Jeff and Derek kept playing in other bands.So to date we have only sold about 1500 copies of STC which is sad because we sold over 3000 copies of our first CD with no help.

How difficult was it for you to find the strength to go on with Braver Since Then? Was it also hard for you to continue composing music that was not easily accepted from the masses and also without any financial support?
It was very difficult. I completely quit playing, I sold all my gear and started pursuing my childhood dream of Racing Motocross. I did that for a few years then got hurt really bad. I figured that was a sign to start playing music again. I built a studio in my house and start recording with Derek again. For many years I tried to contact Trevor and Jeff Ward again with no luck. Ron and I started talking again. I always sought his opinion and approval of my music so I sent him copies of every album I did. Once BST became a full band again with a real drummer I always asked Ron to play with us, but he said he was done. About a year ago I found a number for Trevor Helfer. We contacted him and asked if he wanted to get together with Deke and I. We told him we needed a drummer after a problem with the first BST drummer. He said he didn’t play anymore and didn’t have a drum set. I borrowed a kit and he came over. Within a few minutes we were back playing Leviathan songs we hadn’t thought about in eight years. It was amazing. We were so tight together. That is something that I had been missing for so long. Musical anonymity is easier to live with if you have a great band.

You once tried to contact George Lucas, by sending him your music. Could you tell me more about this?
Well, that is a very long story. It was an Idea I had to make a movie about the crazy, obsessive Star Wars Fans all around the world and how there is almost a cult religion around it. The short and skinny of the concept revolved around an album I did as a solo project in between the last two Leviathan Albums. It was called, “Threading the Stoneneedle”. It was an instrumental with a story being told over the top of the music using dialog from the Star Wars Radio dramas. The rest of the crazy idea never happened. I am sure that George Lucas never even listened to what I sent him. This album’s music was actually closer to heavy progressive stuff than anything else I have ever done. It will be available on Itunes also or directly from our web site. http://www.braversincethen.com/

Do you still contact Ronnie Skeen? Shall we continue to dream about a possible Leviathan reunion?
You know what, Ron and I had been in contact with each other consistently over the last few years until Trevor joined back up with Derek and I. I am not sure why Ron stopped emailing me because of Trevor. I invite him to every show of ours, but he never responds. Oh well. As far as a Leviathan reunion goes. BST is working on that. After three years of lost contact with Jeff Ward we just found him. He is back in Texas again with his family. I am trying to get him to move back to Colorado and rejoin with us. He gave up music for his family. He told me that he would definitely sing on our next album though. So Leviathan fans be ready. Our next BST album will be heavier and basically the same line up as “R,Q,P,O” and Scoring the chapters. As far as my songs were concerned anyway. Like I said before. If there is any way we could come to Europe and play we will be there. I heard Jag Panzer and Titan force were playing some Festivals. If the interest and funding were there for Leviathan/BST we would go in a minute, 4/5ths of us anyway.

Colorado has an important Metal heritage and I don’t know how to explain it, maybe it’s something in the air you breathe! Musicians like Harry Conklin, Corey Brown and others as well are favorites of mine. Which are your picks from the local scene?

My favorite local bands from the past were Titan Force, Monkey Siren, Foolish Pride, and Dotsero. I don’t think any of those bands are still around however.

Tell me about your future plans.
We have two CD release parties this month and after that we are just going to continue to play and write material for our next album. Our main focus is to get Jeff Ward back in the band. As promised our next album will be much heavier and more technical. With Trevor in the band it pushes me to the limits again.

Add anything you may want.
Thanks for all of your work and encouragement over the years. I appreciate all the support and help the Progressive music fans have given us. Thank you.

Dimitris Starakis

OSV – Second Thoughts CD review

2009-04-10T19:43:00.002+03:00

OSV – Second Thoughts CD (Independent release)
The all-star instrumental project that features drummer Gary Oppert (Virtual Reality), bassist Steve Sexton (founder of the mythic band Oblivion Knight that recently re-released their stuff through Steel Legacy Records, check http://www.steel-legacy.com for further details) and Keyboardist/Guitarist Brandon Vaughn released their second effort and prove once again that their talent is inexhaustible. It’s pretty amazing to witness an all-instrumental Progressive Metal/Fusion CD that doesn’t include even a single boring or tasteless moment, due to lack of vocals! Well, these guys have gained insight to the above mentioned musical genres and definitely know how to compose brilliant music, which is strongly focused on melody. “Second Thoughts” features also virtuoso guitarists like Marcel Coenen, Jonas Tamas, Agah Bahari and Borge Olsen that contribute their unique style and the outcome is pretty diverse and innovative! OSV is maybe a grandiose example of talent, gathered in an album, so I am pretty sure that all enthusiasts of music that stands the test of time will obtain this work! Deeply emotional melodies, combined with inspiring and sensational solos, along with memorable riffs is the big advantage of the project. Some may be believe that creating an album with musicians that cannot join you directly in the studio is an enterprise, but OSV prove this opinion wrong. The project is definitely down to earth; they do not make grandiose plans about becoming one of the most famous projects in the world, but they surely have accomplished their goal, but composing music away from boundaries and clichés. I state myself as a fan of their talent and as soon as you get their albums, you’ll become one too! Check the band’s mySpace profile for further info: http://www.myspace.com/osvsecondthoughts

Dimitris Starakis

Scale The Summit – Carving Desert Canyons CD review

2009-03-30T11:56:00.003+03:00

Scale The Summit – Carving Desert Canyons CD (Prosthetic Records)

I remember when I purchased the band’s debut, “Monument” from Nightmare Records and I was surprised when I witnessed that all songs were instrumental ones! Scale The Summit are quite popular and this is a pleasant outcome, since their style will definitely encourage artists to express their creativity without sticking to the typical clichés (music with vocals). “Carving Desert Canyons” is their brand new second album and features 8 songs, all in the instrumental vein. I could categorize them as Progressive Metal, but they balance at times with Fusion and even some minor Lounge atmosphere (guitar-lounge suits better I think!), so the word “Experimental” that appears on their mySpace profile is the most suitable for their musical identity. “Sargasso Sea” is my pick from their CD, but the whole creation spins smoothly and quests the listener to pay attention to unpredicted mood through the songs. Complex music and wonderful riffing from founding members Chris Letchford and Travis Levrier, which contribute their style to the band’s trademark, with endless arpeggios, power chords and impressive talent! This particular musical style can and must attract many fans, since it helps the scene to breathe and grow endlessly! All four musicians are young of age and truly talented, full of energy so the future belongs to them! Let’s all support this prosperous four-piece band and wish them to remain faithful to their innovative style. Never forget that music is food for the mind and Scale The Summit can feed you well! The band tours currently in the US in order to promote the CD and I really wish them to visit Europe in order to present their work overseas! Band’s website: http://www.scalethesummit.com band’s mySpace profile: http://www.myspace.com/scalethesummit
Dimitris Starakis

Max The Axe's Blazing Star interview

2009-03-24T20:30:00.006+02:00

Max The Axe's Blazing Star second demo proved how a newcomer band can progress and create some fabulous music. Max, the talented 29-year-old Italian guitarist was kind enough and really fast when he send his reply to my questions. Enjoy the interview of a multi-talented musician!!

When you decided to form this project and why?

Honestly,I've always had a dream about giving life to a project or a band, about writing songs....in 2005, many things changed in my life, and the only wise thing to do was starting from the very beginning. Bad times make you realize what you really want. So I focused my goals, than started composing songs like "Blazing Star" and "Love Criminal", as well as "Still Holding On" and "Winds of Conquest". Only the first two tracks were included in our first demo, if you remember.

Your passion for Neoclassical Metal is obvious. What forced you to follow this qualitative genre?

I'm not here to be a sort of rip-off or somebody else's clone. I've always loved music from Rainbow, Europe, Queen, Deep Purple, Scorpions, Black Sabbath, and of course the absolute genius of Hendrix and Yngwie. Those artists are simply over the top, it would be a foolish game tryin' to clone them. Anyway, affinities with the music I love is quite obvious and natural. I listen to a lot of Baroque and Neoclassical Music as well. I'm here to play by the heart, not to keep following others' style....in the next cd I'd like to include some blues tunes, since Stevie Ray Vaughan is another real genius for me, or some "atmosphere" as David Gilmour used to. Blazing Star change their skin every single day, eheheheh!

Italy has a lot of talented guitar players. Name me your favorites.

You could not believe in what I'm about to say, but I'm not involved at all in Italian music & guitar scene. I live in my own world, I hold on to Yngwie, Blackmore, Hendrix, Vaughan, and tons of other great heroes from the past, in Italy we have gifted guitarists like Giacomo Castellano which are mostly famous as session-men or tutors, but not as songwriters. I love Claudio Simonetti, he's a real keyboard ninja!!!!

Alessio Vanni is your singer. How did you decide to include him in the recordings?

We were searching for a vocalist which could remind us of Joey Tempest, Mark Boals, David Byron....and here it is!!!!!!! I think we've chosen the best around.

Tell me also about your collaboration with contrabassist Michelangelo Zorzit

He's a dear friend, and he's very professional. I asked him to come in my studio with his contrabass, and I let him listen to the backing track of "Still Holding On". He recorded some takes and I choose the best one. I think he did a great work, that contrabass part is really inspired, I think it perfectly fits with the chords....especially with the Major variation on the pre-chorus! What do you think about?

One of my favorite tracks on your 2nd demo is "Ice & Stone". Which are your favorite tracks from your demo?

I only wrote the music for "Ice & Stone", you should ask Tomas. Well, this is always the most difficult question to answer: at the times of our first demo, I've always preferred "Blazing Star" simply because I was not so ok with the first version of "Love Criminal". But in this case, how can I say "I love my son more than my daughter"??? You know what I mean, man. I think "Still Holding On" is the best song I've ever written...but I could tell you the same about "Excalibur", "Visions"...

Tell me about the lyrical content of your songs.

My lyrics are loud & clear: I write about passion, feelings, love, freedom, everything that common people faces everyday in life. "Winds of Conquest" is about American Natives,because they're people which suffered and fought hard for their land and their freedom. My songs are about truth, not about vikings or other shit.....I'm not interested in speaking about foolish or easy themes, my message is about the will to face difficulties, about living our life with both mind and heart. "Excalibur" is based on John Boorman's movie, which is one of the best memories from my childhood. "Visions" could seem a "fantasy" tune, but it tells about rising again like the Phoenix from the ashes, and that's almost BLAZING STAR's story!!!

In your official website you mention that Max The Axe’s Blazing Star is only a studio project. Have you ever thought on organizing a tour in order to promote your works?

We're working hard to find out the best elements we need to set up a complete band and shouting our Rock on stage, too! It's only a matter of time...

You are also a fan of the Italian Horror and cult movie scene! Which are your favorite director’s /movies and why?

I always loved cult movies from all around the world. You had Mastorakis, if I remember well...something like "Island of Death"....or "Chrysalis Day"...am I correct? I think Italy is absolutely the best country for horror movies, more than U.S.A.; we had Lucio Fulci who was a sort of Jim Morrison shooting movies. I love his no-compromise films, his totally unchained attitude. Dario Argento had his great moments too, but he's not so constant through time as Fulci was. Have you ever watched "They've changed face" by Corrado Farina??? It's one of the best examples of 70s Italian "art" cinema. I also love Spanish director Narciso Ibanez Serrador, who recently produce the home-videos "Peliculas para no dormir": take a look at those shorts, my friend!!!!

Tell me about your future plans. Have you started composing music for your 3rd demo?

Of course!!!! I have many ideas written on scores, including one song inspired by some Lovecraft novels...it tells about nightmares, that are actually the real monsters inside our mind. There's also a new track, even if it's still incomplete, about all the heroes from the past, not only concerning music but also politics, cinema...it talks about passion and dedication to the cause that people had once. Nowadays everything is poor of meaning, there's no more passion.While working for Blazing Star, I'm also giving my contribution to a "written documentary" about Rock and Hard Rock History, that could be posted in a few days on a Italian Heavy Metal Website. A friend of mine asked me to write some memories, some feelings about playing Hard Rock...and so I accepted to help him in this adventure. Unfortunately, it will come in Italian only.

We first came in touch through mySpace and I want to know if this helped you to spread your reputation. Do you have contacts through mySpace with other underground bands as well?

I think Myspace is the best communication channel by now, not only for a band but also for a magazine, for a director, for an actor, for a shop ecc. I don't like "Facebook", instead: it seems to me like The Big Brother...you know....I'm not so ok being monitored 24 hours a day by other people. Through shit like Facebook, we'll go like George Lucas' "THX1138".....if you know what I mean.

Add anything you may want!
First of all I have to thank you very much for your incredible support, I've read your review and I'm very happy to know you enjoyed our music!!! We're always happy if people understands that we're a honest, sincere Rock band. I hope your readers will be interested in our new demo-cd "Blazing Star II", too!!! A big CIAO to you, to your readers and to Greece! Blazing Star's still here to Rock!

Dimitris Starakis

Wicked Waltz – Chapter I mini-Cd review

2009-03-24T10:50:00.004+02:00

Wicked Waltz – Chapter I mini-Cd (Independent Release)

I discovered this US band when I listened to Progpower’s IX showcase sampler D-CD. Their featured song was titled “A Heart That Cannot Bleed” and their Power metal style with some Progressive elements immediately caught my attention. The band was formed in 2004 by guitarist Micah Nicholson and they immediately started spreading their good reputation by giving concerts and participating in compilation CD’s. 2008 was a big year for the band, since their very first release saw the light of day. “Chapter I” includes four songs that provide unique thrills to the listener, from the opening “Lifemare”, to my favorite and catchier “My Last Wish” one of the most brilliant songs I’ve listened to lately!). The big advantage of Wicked Waltz is the solid twin guitars, played my Micah and Jamie, which create a powerful “background” for the intense keyboard parts that play an active role to the band’s musical identity. The voice of Jason is deep, melodic and flexible, something which is necessary for a demanding role in this band. The sextet form Alabama doesn’t deviate from the US melodic Power Metal style with some Progressive Metal elements as I wrote before, but their originality and creativity is obvious and make them stick out like a sore thumb! In case anyone is afraid to stick its neck out, I can easily say that Wicked Waltz is a bright hope for the scene and this is not an inept remark! I can tell you that I long for their full-length CD and I am pretty sure that you’ll feel the same when you obtain and enjoy “Chapter I”! Band’s website: www.wickedwaltz.net band’s mySpace profile: www.myspace.com/wickedwaltz
Dimitris Starakis

Braver Since Then - Short On Patience, Burn In Haste CD review

2009-03-21T12:44:00.004+02:00

Braver Since Then - Short On Patience, Burn In Haste CD (Stonefellowship Recordings/Independent Release)
Thank God for mySpace! Yes, this is the ideal prologue since through mySpace I was able to trace John Lutzow, the guitarist of one of my favorite Progressive Metal bands – Leviathan from Colorado, USA. John wanted to express his endless artistic expressions and formed BST. In 1994 the band started to become active and endless studio hours helped John to write down material , in order to release their debut in the fall of 1995. It was called “Naming my Pain” and it mostly included instrumental tracks, with a few vocal songs as well. After their debut, BST released 5 albums and some of their songs were put also in Leviathan albums such as “Born Unto” and “Legacy Departing”, that can be traced in Leviathan’s farewell CD “Scoring the Chapters”.
Braver Since Then is a band free from musical borders and it's hard to categorize them. The main ingredient on each and every song is one: intense feeling. There are parts in which the listeners can recognize some Leviathan parts out of the intelligent and prototype riffs that John creates, but also there word “prog” includes each and every influence that an artist can attract. The music is not as heavy as Leviathan’s musical style, as it includes many acoustic guitar parts, but there are riffs and solos that still carry the trademark of the glorious band. One fine example is the riff from the opener “Picture Perfect” or the song “Projecting Feelings”. I surely missed those intelligent riffs that only Leviathan used to present to us and I was quite happy that Braver Since Then and John are active and still present us their vivid talent. Female vocals also accompany at times Derek Blake’s voice, while musical parts are combined with catchy keyboard playing. BST will attract many fans of Prog Rock music, but also many people that are interested in original and “unpredicted” material.
I strongly recommend checking and supporting their music, since talented musicians and wonderful lyric writers like John Lutzow need you help in order to continue to give us pleasant surprises! “Short On Patience, Burn In Haste” is now available through iTunes and for further info, feel free to check their website: http://www.braversincethen.com/
Dimitris Starakis

Max The Axe’s Blazing Star – II Demo CD review

2009-03-20T20:41:00.002+02:00

Max The Axe’s Blazing Star – II Demo CD

The project of Max The Axe, a truly gifted guitarist from Italy has sent me its second demo CD and I was really happy to witness the great progression of the band! First of all, Alessio Vanni handles the vocal parts of the songs and his abilities meet the expectations of the qualitative music that Max composes. The band’s style remain stable, with a delicate balance between Neoclassical and melodic Metal, including extraordinary guitar parts that only a true virtuoso with a Fender Stratocaster can create! As soon as I listened to the magnificent song “Ice & Stone”, I realized that this band can surely give a refreshing perspective to the scene, by composing wonderful tracks, influenced by the great masters of the genre (Rainbow, Yngwie J. Malmsteen). There are truly 8 faultless tracks in this demo and I am really glad that my wish about the progress of the band has been fulfilled! Even the song “Love Criminal 2008”, which has been re-recorded from the first demo, is definitely now a truly “upgraded” version. The listener can also recognize the intense Rainbow influence on “Excalibur”, while the sentimental “Still Holding On” features contrabassist Michelangelo Zorzit (former bassist of the Prog Rock band Hopo). I really can write pages and pages for the wonderful songs of this demo, since the musicianship is on the highest level! If you like pompous, grandiose Neoclassical Metal with fine vocals and over the top guitar performance, then this demo CD is a top pick! Symphonia, Andy Sartori & Symphony, Steve Shannon, Zyphoyd, Hidden Disturbances and now Max The Axe’s Blazing Star, are artists that give new breeze to the Neoclassical Metal genre! Order the CD by sending an e-mail to the band: blazingstar_press@yahoo.it Band’s mySpace profile: http://www.myspace.com/maxblazingstar
Dimitris Starakis

Faith Factor - Against A Darkened Sky CD review

2009-03-14T13:28:00.003+02:00

Faith Factor - Against A Darkened Sky (Retroactive Records)
It’s been always a pleasure to receive new efforts from some favorite bands of mine, and Faith Factor is placed among my top picks. The Christian Metal band from New Jersey raised our expectation with their brilliant demo “07/07/07” and their full-length CD is once again a fine piece of qualitative US Power Metal. The band is truly gifted, having a frontman like Ski, who’s once again giving lessons of an original Metal performer. His deeply expressional voice give the needed might to the songs and delivers the Heavy Metal message in the song “Keep It True”! The fans of the band will be definitely satisfied with hymns like “Ascend Unto Heaven”, Armor Of God” and others, while I must admit that I am dying to witness this band performing live! The metallic might that this CD delivers is beyond words and expressions and only the listener can witness its magic! Ski’s voice is well-known to the fans of Deadly Blessing and his significant high-pitched tone fits perfectly to the hard and pounding Power Metal anthems! A bombastic atmosphere spreads throughout the album, which can be considered as a true value of US-Metal. Yes, Faith Factor can be already placed among the living legends of the scene, since their beliefs about Heavy Metal music remained faultless throughout the years! Allow me to show them my commitment and I have no other choice than to strongly suggest you to support them! Band’s website: http://www.faithfactorband.com/ Band’s mySpace profile: http://www.myspace.com/faithfactorrocks

Dimitris Starakis

Tetrafusion – Absolute Zero EP review

2009-01-09T18:57:00.003+02:00

Tetrafusion – Absolute Zero EP (Independent Release)

The beginning of Tetrafusion is quite interesting, since the band, which is based out of Shreveport, Louisiana had the idea to be strictly into instrumental jazz music. Thankfully, their tastes were heavier and they finally decided to perform instrumental, Progressive Metal with a definite experimental mood. Their first EP was released before the end of 2008, in order to prepare the ground for their debut full-length.
Tetrafusion are quite innovative in their performance and a fine example of my sayings is the song “Gravity”, which begins with a catchy piano main theme and progresses into a fusion-istic creation, with wonderful, slightly doom-ish guitars that give a characteristic in the band’s sound. “Inertia” is maybe the most experimental track of all, with additional psych/doom and some electronic keyboard sound to be included. “Tetrafusion – The beginning” lasts 10 minutes and its quite interesting with its nice melodies which can transfer the listener to futuristic landscapes. I hope I made you understand that the band’s music is not for the faint of heart (he, he) and will be surely ideal for all fans of Scale The Summit and many other experimental bands. I definitely enjoyed their intelligent and totally creative art. Visit the band’s mySpace profile in order to learn how you can buy their stuff: http://www.myspace.com/tetrafusion Band’s website: http://www.tetrafusion.net/

Dimitris Starakis

Yakamashii – 4 song promo CD review

2008-12-23T09:47:00.005+02:00

Yakamashii – 4 song promo CD (Independent Release)

If you are searching for undiscovered bands that come from overseas, then the quest can be hard, long and sometimes unsuccessful. I had this feeling when I first heard about "Kai Hernando", a virtuoso from Singapore who was extremely talented and had already released some stuff. I started searching for Kai's works but I couldn't find a decent sample of his work! Finally and, after thanking God for mySpace, I was able to contact a band named Yakamashii. Yakamashii was really kind enough to send me their first two albums, entitled "Insomnia" and "Durjana". "Insomnia" was released on 2001 and "Durjana" 4 years later. The band's style can be characterized as raw-sounding Power Metal with Neoclassical metal elements, when time comes for Amy to contribute his blistering solos. I truly admire his style of playing, since it gives the band the necessary amount of melody in order to create a worth-mentioning style. Lately, Yakamashii (which means 'noisy' in Japanese) released a four track promo CD in their struggle to break the boundaries of Singapore and expand their reputation abroad. The CD begins with "Kau Tak Peduli" a Power Metal song with melodic chorus and Amy's brilliant solo to make the difference once again! "Epik Wira Rimba" is a technical Thrash song, while "Azab" once again is full of powerful riffing and wonderful guitar melodies. The promo CD ends with the song "Fight" (featuring English lyrics), my favorite Yakamashii song, which includes a fantastic riff (Amy is a true virtuoso) and is ideal for the band's musical style. If Yakamashii improve in the vocal section, then I am pretty sure that they will create some quite memorable albums. I fully support Amy's musical ideas and I am sure that in the near future, this talented guitarist will increase his worldwide fans. Contact the band and obtain their promo CD! Band's profile: http://www.myspace.com/yakablast

Dimitris Starakis

Zyphoyd – Prelude to The Storm Demo review

2008-12-22T11:57:00.003+02:00

Zyphoyd – Prelude to The Storm Demo CD

It’s been a long time since I last met a dual-guitar attack project and Zyphoyd really caught my attention since the very beginning. I was a listener through their mySpace profile and was able to witness how the band progressed in terms of composing songs. Finally, their first instrumental demo is out and I am definitely pleased from the final result. Glen Sambrook and Kieran Larkey from New South Wales, Australia are two gifted guitar players and composers, if you can understand the true meaning of these words. The band’s style is really diverse and this fact gives the listener an enjoyable effort with the lack of dull moments. From the storming opening song to the deeply emotional “Key of Destiny”, Zyphoyd prove that qualitative instrumental music is here and can surely have a place in every metal fan’s discography. Their enthusiasm is obvious and I am sure that both can also compose even more interesting songs in the near future. If you enjoy Progressive instrumental music with Neo-classical and Eastern influences, then Zyphoyd is the latest hot name in the scene! Well done guys, we need your music. Always believe in your talent! Band’s mySpace profile: http://www.myspace.com/zyphoyd

Dimitris Starakis

Storrmbringer - Promo 2008 review

2008-12-21T17:25:00.005+02:00

Storrmbringer – Promo 2008

The young quartet from Volos considers themselves as disciples of pure Epic Heavy Metal and, judging from their three songs that appear on this promo, there are fairly right! Storrmbringer was formed in 2006 and this promo is the appetizer before the release of their debut album entitled “Among The Flames Of War”. The band already signed a contract with Eat Metal Records and the CD will be out in 2009. You can surely expect some well-performed Heavy Metal from these youngsters since their razor-sharp riffs and the high-pitched voice serve well their musical beliefs. “Return Of The Avenger” showcases an intense Iron Maiden influence on the main riff, while “Stormbringer” is a fast-paced Metal track. “Heathen Cry”, with its mid-tempo opening rhythm and the pounding main part could be easily considered as the band’s “concert trademark”. It’s nice to witness the enthusiasm of young bands, while they perform their favorite music. I believe that all fans of pure Heavy Metal will place Storrmbringer among their favorite newcomer groups and I am sure that their first CD will include even more noticeable moments of our favorite music! Band’s mySpace profile: http://www.myspace.com/storrmbringer

Dimitris Starakis

Koichi Hayakawa (2008 Remastered Edition) Digital Release review

2008-12-12T11:34:00.003+02:00

Koichi Hayakawa (2008 Remastered Edition) Digital Release

I have got this effort before from cdbaby.com in CD format, but Koichi decided to remaster and re-release it again as a digital release only. Koichi comes from the land of the Rising Sun. He has been playing the guitar for over 25 years now, and he was already teaching guitar and music composition since the age of 17.
His newest digital release is like a mini-best of effort from his previous single release and gives the opportunity to every fan of instrumental music to enjoy his qualitative playing. Koichi plays marvellous instrumental music with really inspiring riffs! Koichi’s style includes neo-classical elements, but doesn’t remain strictly in the baroque atmosphere. His vibrant sound, combined with various cheerful melodies and shuffle guitar orientation, is a close description of his musical identity. The talent of this wonderful guitarist was not neglected and this was proven from the fact that in 2003 "Speed" became the number one downloaded song in the Instrumental Rock section of MP3.com, followed by "Crush" which became the number one downloaded song in the Instrumental Metal section. His newest remastered edition is now available through itunes, cdbaby.com and amazonmp3 (only for US customers) so I recommend you to give his work a try since Koichi is truly gifted! Koichi’s myspace profile: www.myspace.com/koichihayakawa Official web-site: www.koichi-hayakawa.com
Dimitris Starakis

Kingdragon – Fire In The Sky promo-CD review

2008-11-14T20:49:00.005+02:00

Kingdragon – Fire In The Sky promo-CD

When a man like George Aspiotis, who was played with some wonderful Greek bands like Raw Silk and the always amazing Spitfire, decided to play the game in "front row", then the result must surely be qualitative! KINGDRAGON is a melodic Hard Rock project that was formed in 2006 and has just released this four-track promo CD, strictly for promo purposes. The style of the band is clearly focused on catchy melodies that are strongly supported from the keyboard parts (a trademark of Foti’s unique style, who also handles the vocals), while also the guitar parts from Anastasis F. are faultless and fit the band’s style. I personally choose out from the four songs the tracks “Fire In The Sky” Lovely Lady” and “Man Of Yesterday” since they capture the true melodic essence of sentimental and perfectly-executed Hard Rock music! I strongly support the opinion that KINGDRAGON should be immediately supported from a record label since their ability to compose wonderful and enjoyable and their experience in the scene cannot be omitted! Fans of Journey, early Europe, and Giuffria among others should stay tuned, since this project (who recently supported Gotthard and Firehouse during their concerts in Athens!) has a lot more to offer. Visit their web-site: www.kingdragon.gr and their mySpace profile: http://www.myspace.com/meetkingdragon
Dimitris Starakis

Black Sun - Rebirth Cd review

2008-10-04T10:48:00.003+03:00

Black Sun – Rebirth CD (Independent Release)

It’s always wonderful to witness some Hellenic band to unleash their brand new stuff! Blacksun was formed in 1993 by Minas P. (guitars) and Anthony A. (drums). After a while Konstantinos Dratzides (bass) joined the band. On April 1994 the band released the debut five track demo-tape called "Blacksun. After two years the second, three-track demo-tape titled "Through Storm We Ride" was out. The atmosphere was more epic in that three-track release. The band went on with session musicians but the result was disappointing. After one year Anthony and Konstantinos rejoined the band. Two new members joined the band as well, Nikos Filippas (Vocals), Nikos Koulelis (Bass). With the new line-up created their third attack called "Crystal Edge of Time" in cd this time. The music of the band turned to be more melodic but heavy metal as well. The band pauses its activities until 2001 when the simply titled"Promo-cd 2001" was out and a change in the band sound was now a reality, since their musical landscapes were more atmospheric. Blacksun’s first cd titled “Tragaedia Eternal” came out on 2006 and it was the band’s most “depressed” release. Now, with the addition of Airged Lamh’s vocalist Steve Vernando, the band from Aigaleo chose to follow a more melodic and straightforward path in the musical quest. There are no dark parts in “Rebirth” or female vocal parts and the guitars simply show the way with delightful melodic riffs. I enjoyed the four tracks that appear on this release and I think that all of them stand on the same, high level. I you enjoy melodic metal with well-executed music from experienced musicians that now how to create interesting music, then give no second thought on purchasing this effort! Band’s website : http://www.blacksun.gr/. Band’s mySpace profile: www.myspace.com/blacksungr
Dimitris Starakis

Killbot Zero – Microtopia CD review

2008-09-19T10:01:00.005+03:00

Killbot Zero – Microtopia CD (Independent Release)
I was approached by Chris Cavera, the leader of this prog project and I agreed to review their second effort that was released this year. To be honest, I was a little surprised when I found out that a MIDI sequencing software and an MP3 player helped them to finish the recordings of their album. The band was formed in 2003 under the great name Progzilla with Bruce Vermett on drums, Chris Cavera on guitar, Dan Huber on bass, and Tony Eyer on keyboards. Bruce left to go to school in LA and the band disbanded. After returning, Bruce and Chris reformed and rehearse, as their bio inform us. Dan then had moved to Chicago and Tony had no time for bands. Chis Cavera, decided to fill the missing parts with a little helping hand from technology and also remixed the drums and re-recorded all the rhythm guitar tracks before the release of the CD. Killbot Zero plays a unique style of instrumental Progressive Rock/Metal with odd meters and mind-exercising keyboard parts. “Microtopia” could have easily been a Musea release, for those who are familiar with the French Label’s releases. Intelligent, high-skilled music that demands the listener’s attention for great musicians that deny quitting from their musical quests, due to the great problems that they face in forming a band with a stable line-up. Support the band and buy their efforts, since money is not the main issue here. Intelligent music needs your support and these enthusiasts form Killbot Zero know how to perform it! Their 3rd CD "CPU Assassins" is currently in the works, so pretty soon we’ll have another noticeable sample from these progsters. Buy their albums in a really affordable price here: http://www.mindawn.com/albums/4595
Dimitris Starakis

Forgotten Realm – Power And Glory CD review

2008-08-02T10:34:00.001+03:00

Forgotten Realm – Power And Glory CD (Sonic Age Records)

Yes, yes, yes, at last this album is out! I was pretty desperate from the delay of its release but now I hold it in my hands and yes, this is an album destined for the top! Forgotten Realm is an all-star band featuring the one and only David Fefolt, who contributes some magnificent vocal work on bands like Valhalla, Masi and Hawk, while the guitars are handled by Matthew Mills. I will not write my opinion about Matthew since this blog is full of his majestic releases and of course his interviews. The drum kit features another professional musician who is none other than Rhino, known from his cooperation with Manowar. So, when you get an album with such talented musicians, then the result is destined to become a classic album. “Path To The Fire” opens the album, a known track since Matthew posted it some years ago in a music web-site, so those who have listened to it before know what to expect. The others must be prepared for a splendid Power Metal hymn, full of flashy leads and out-of-this-world vocal performance!! “Time” is the second song of the album and once again one of their most inspiring compositions, while “Eyes Of My Soul” is a Neoclassical opus with David leaving me with my mouth open! This man is truly one of the greatest singers of all time; simple as that! Shattered Horizons was originally a mid-tempo instrumental track that was also featured in Matthew’s solo CD “Neoclassical Rock Guitar”. Now it features David’s vocals and it’s simply marvelous! A true Neoclassical Metal Hymn! The same stand for “Forgotten Realm” the 7min and 41sec grandiose song. “On Wings Like The Eagles” is the emotional songs of the album, a ballad in which the band really knows how to express their emotions and Matthew delivers also some wonderful riffs in that song as well! “Forged In Steel” is another Power Metal attack, while Freedom Calls is another fast-paced song with a sing-along chorus. The CD ends with a cover on Rainbow’s classic “Man Of The Silver Mountain”-the Neoclassical version! “Power And Glory” is a classic album as I said earlier so be sure to obtain it, in order to feel the magic! Order it through Sonic Age Records: http://www.sonicagerecords.com/ Band’s mySpace profile: http://www.myspace.com/theforgottenrealmband

Dimitris Starakis

Hidden Disturbances – mini-CD (Independent Release) review

2008-07-29T19:14:00.003+03:00

Hidden Disturbances – mini-CD (Independent Release)

Neoclassical Metal on steroids? Well, yes, you could say so!! On the other hand, someone can describe this mini-CD as the Instrumental sensation of the year! Yes, you read well- these crazy Italians, with their “Shred N’ Roll” style as they love to call it totally amazed me. Imagine Depp Purple decide to take Yngwie on guitars and record an instrumental jam under the influence, he, he! Yes, the debut effort from Hidden Disturbances is a fine example “proggy” Neo-classical Metal/Shred/Fusion with the usage at times of the always sweet sounding Hammond (I am DYING for Hammond sound!) and it is highly recommended for all the fans of virtuoso and intelligent music. Yes, this quintet from Italy created a really provocative release and I am pretty sure that if they continue this way, then the world will soon appreciate their enormous talent. Credits must also be given to the great guitarist Saverio Tarantini, who is the brainchild behind the bands by composing the tracks and delivering also some six string guitar wizardry! He won the 5th and 6th edition of the International Music Contest in the city of Atri (Italy), a competition which gathers artists from all over the world. He played also at The Human Rights Day, an event held in the theaters of Loreto Aprutino and Città Sant’Angelo, two nice cities in the Italian Region of Abruzzo. Another important experience in his curriculum is the opening of the great drummer Greg Bissonette concerts in 2005. He has already written his first guitar method, addressed to all who want to play in his original style. I don’t think that I need to write more. The band accepts Paypal, so it is quite easy and affordable for you to buy this wonderful piece of art and support them by any means! Hidden Disturbances recently included singer Fabrizio Avantaggiato in their marks, so there are working for their first full-length album. Band’s mySpace: http://www.myspace.com/hiddendisturbances .

Dimitris Starakis

Giuseppe Silvestri – La Rosa Del Deserto CD (Secret Port Records) Cd review

2008-07-29T13:08:00.004+03:00

Giuseppe Silvestri – La Rosa Del Deserto CD (Secret Port Records)

This is the second CD from 34-year-old guitarist Giuseppe who recently singed a contract with Secret Port Records and he definitely carries the tradition of the great Italian scene! I really enjoy instrumental albums, especially when the composer strongly focuses on his inspirational melodies and riffs, without having in top priority his demonstration in various techniques. The style of the album ranges from my favorite Neo-classical songs (“Inferno”, “Coral Castle”, “Portrait of Isabel”, “Les Fleur Du Mal”), to Eastern-influenced tracks (“Gates Of Passion”), mid-tempo pompous compositions (“Eternity”) and quite sentimental moments (“La Rosa Del Deserto”, “Daisy”) so there’s plenty of variety for the listener to choose which songs fits his taste best. Giuseppe is totally enjoyable when he performs the songs: he uses catchy phrases which never produce a dull moment and I think that this is the great advantage of his second effort. Allow me also to express my admiration to the song named “Portrait Of Isabel” since I think that in this particular song Giuseppe proves his advanced skills as a composer! Support independent releases like this and send your encouraging comment to Giuseppe. Visit his mySpace profile (unfortunately it is written in Italian only): www.myspace.com/silvestrigius. Order his CD through Secret Port Records: http://www.truemetal.org/secretport. His first self-titled CD is also available from: http://cdbaby.com/cd/gsilvestri

Dimitris Starakis

Orest 'Hawk' Dziatyk's musical past and present revealed in current Snakepit magazine!

2008-07-18T18:11:00.004+03:00

Laurent Ramadier from the always amazing Snakepit Magazine (http://www.truemetal.org/snakepit) did a wonderful research regarding Illinoi's Metal scene and included an interview with guitarist Orest 'Hawk' Dziatyk. In order to spread the word about Hawk and his always great musical steps, we encourage you to download the following interview here . Don't forget also to order your copy of Snakepit!!!

P.S.: Check also Septer's releases in CD Baby for a possible purchase: http://cdbaby.com/cd/septermetal

Ashen Reign – Immortality CD review

2008-07-10T10:12:00.001+03:00

Ashen Reign – Immortality CD (Independent Release)

This is an one-man project, found by Brent McDaniel and with the help of Vance McCumber formed and forged ahead. Brent McDaniel actually did all the drums, guitars, vocals, harmonies, keyboards, bass, recording and mixing. The melodic Heavy / Power Metal songs that “Immortality” includes are overpowered by the wonderful, solid and skillful guitar playing, by unleashing great riffs and pretty noticeable solos. I believe that Brent will try to find an appropriate singer for his next album, in order to send his songs to the next level. “The Fire Within” “Immortality” “Running Away” and other songs as well will be handled much better if they were sang by a better singer, so I am pretty sure that Brent will definitely search for a singer in his follow-up. Many congratulations to this “lonely hero” for his passion to release an album and I am sure that the fans will support him in order to give him the necessary courage to continue his “Metallic Quest”. "Immortality" is available through CDBaby (http://cdbaby.com/cd/ashenreign), but you can also find more info here: http://www.ashenreign.com/ashenshop.cfm
Dimitris Starakis

Christos Nikolaou (Mythodea) – Ultimate Pain song (featuring John West) review

2008-07-08T18:37:00.003+03:00

Christos Nikolaou (Mythodea) – Ultimate Pain song (featuring John West)

I never remember myself having written a full review for a single…song! My good friend Christos Nikolaou, a great guitarist who is completing the Mythodea project, is working for a disc that will definitely features some bright names of the scene like Jonathan Marshall, the always amazing Vitalij Kuprij on keyboards and of course the one and only John West! Let me clear something first: I am a HUGE fan of John West’s vocal abilities and I can never stop enjoying his solo works, his Artension albums, his amazing work on Royal Hunt etc. I must also admit that I don’t like his latest project, Ten Man Push, since John’s voice is destined for more “sentimental” situations. Well, the song “Ultimate Pain” is clearly the best song West has sang after his departure from Royal Hunt! Even Emir Hot doesn’t have such an inspiring song in “Sevdah Metal” (ok, let me exclude “Stand And Fight” from the sentence, he, he!). The song is truly fabulous and it is written for John’s warm, passionate voice, so you can expect some vocal wizardry from one of the most important singers of our scene. Christos made the perfect choice for “Ultimate Pain” and I really want to encourage him to feature John West in more tracks of his forthcoming CD! This is the John West as we love to worship!!!! Check the song for yourselves: http://www.myspace.com/christosnikolaou

Dimitris Starakis

Forgotten Scroll Fanzine #4 out now!!!

2008-05-12T09:29:00.003+03:00

FORGOTTEN SCROLL 4 - APRIL 2008 - OUT NOW

Features interviews from:
ZIONS ABYSS (CAN)
SOLAR EAGLE (CAN)
ENCHANTER (US)
LONGINGS PAST (US)
THROES OF SANITY (US)
MANILLA ROAD (US)
HEATHENS RAGE (US)
GRAVEN IMAGE (US)
CHILD SAINT (US)
MEMORY GARDEN (SWE)
LOST HORIZON (SWE)
ATTACK (GER)
MORGANA (IT)
RUSSIAN METAL Special article
HOLY DRAGONS (RU)
FINAL ANSWER (GR)
DIPTHERIA (CYP)
ARRYAN PATH (CYP)
RUST (CYP) + Diphtheria (CY) CD (Power / Epic Doom Gods) http://www.forgotten-scroll.net

Price is 5 euros (p+p worldwide included)

Send your payment to the following paypal id: gtsiligkakis@gmail.com

The Vengeful Few – S/t CD review

2008-05-10T13:23:00.001+03:00

The Vengeful Few – S/t CD (Beagleator Music)

I still remember when I visited the band’s mySpace profile and listen to their songs. The band delivers well-executed, melodic and most of all, traditional Heavy Metal that is so hard to present it so fresh nowadays! I was really surprised that this U.S. quintet that was formed in 2004 by guitar players Tom Catuosco and John Zambri in Morris County, NJ knows how to make the listener listen to this album again and again! Wonderful tracks like “Get Us Out”, “Circle Of Seven” are maybe ideal for bring them live on stage, so I suggest to all European promoters to address the bands for some European dates and then even more people can surely appreciate their talent! Razor-sharp and memorable riffs, a great voice (Keith Vitali is also a member of the band “Gods Of Fire”) and most of all wonderful songs is what you get in this debut, so be sure that The Vengeful Few are here to stay for a long time with such a talent on their marks! Their CD is distributed through various on-line shops, so get more info on their website: http://www.thevengefulfew.com/ Band’s mySpace profile: http://www.myspace.com/thevengefulfew

Dimitris Starakis

Symphonia interview

2008-05-09T17:57:00.016+03:00

It was a pleasure doing an interview with one of the most talented bands I've listened to lately and it's none other than Symphonia. The band from Kuala Lumpur was kind enough to send me its' answers to my questions, so enjoy what these inspiring musicians have to say...

When was Symphonia formed and how difficult was to find the appropriate members?

Symphonia: Back in 2004 with the 1st batch and since 2007 comes the best/newest line-up until now. Not too difficult as they're formerly Symphonia's close friends/followers who believe and have passion for this kind of music. Back in 2003, its quite hard to say but through our experiences, we have found a formula to minimized the hardparts. With the right tools/technique of self-practise. We've minimized errors down to 80% in the whole group practise sessions. So, the better system of individual practise and then in the group session is the key to be a better musician/band.

Was it hard for you to find band members that were interested in performing Neo-classical Metal?

Symphonia: Normally it'll depend on the situation & offcourse the attraction that we has...u might find there only quite a few bands plays this kind of music in malaysia, as its the most oustanding/demanding of Metal - its hard to find one band that has good musician's quality as in group - some bands are very good on the guitars only and some on the drums. Normally one of the members has been quite long in this band-they'll become very musically-good/advance-so there'll be a high demand for them to be invited to play outside as the sessionist. we do hope and place our support so that there will be more local bands concepting this genre and has a better system to develope their musical's quality as in group better package/product.

Tell me about what "Satria Naga" means and I want you also to comment the lyrical content of your songs.

Symphonia: Its just a cliche's of those strong/conquer elements over the weak/manipulated entities! Most of thelyrics potrait common issues - such as bad politicians, corruptions, personal faith and how to do the right thing in bad situation - sits up to readers to sub-understand it as once a lyric sung with the music it might produce a different feeling/emotion. We might record the vocals again in english and place them as bonus tracks in our next album.

Which are your favorite tracks from "Satria…" and why?

Symphonia: Every songshas different feelings and expressions on its own so its hard to choose which one the best, but for technical aspect we choose "Satria Naga" & "9 pendita" since it has an every bit of complexius rhtymn, blistering solo and amazing challenging drum patterns. For vocal tracks we choose the following: "Manusia", "Wira" & "7 penjuru" as these turn-out very well sounding-details advance compositions aspect. "Hasutan", "7 penjuru", "Lagenda trilogy" has the most shred/baroques elements throughly.

You are also recording a full tribute CD to Yngwie Malmsteen. Why you decided to do this?

Symphonia: YJM has been one of our major influences on us-throughout the time, we've understand his trademark composition/skills-finally can play and record his songs, not just claim/say it but unable to prove that we could play his.it has been our ultimate dream to produce this album...to prove to the world of how deep was YJM influences on us!.weve being on practising a lot of yjm tracks that u might never see him does on his live show.kind of tribute in Symphonia way - certain part we keep the original and some solo parts will be improvise by Aman.

Please mention your favourite guitarists and bands.

Symphonia: Bach/Paganini violin pieces - we wish we know who has influenced this maestros Yngwie J. Malmsteen's all albums - from the low-gain in the early 83' swe, we also like his newer sound,his impovised solos in newer albums, whie the latest compositions are also good!

Newer: Katsu Ohta strat's tones and solo/interlude/improvised licks, Richard Andersson's song's arrangement and keyboard single-coil sounds/solos.

Technically: we prefer most single-coil tones and sound guitarist,we dislike humbucker/high-output tones as its will weaken the sweet elements/freq tones.

Are you satisfied with the sales of your debut CD so far?

Symphonia: quite good! it has surpassed our basecost last month, luckily we have minimized the production cost through self-effort - private owned record label. By end of May we'll get the actual total collection from dealers/associates - positively 2nd reprint will follow soon. Thanks to u too brother-those reviews really has spread the Satria Naga news.

You are also preparing your 2nd album, with lyrics now fully written in English. Give us some info on your preparations.

Symphonia: Its all on the right track - 70% progress so far! 10 tracks has been recorded without vocal yet..we do spend on this an extra hours as we understand the demand & competitiveness are higher than the 1st album..this 2nd album will potray our differentiate and progressive ideas toward neoclassical-baroque platform..rhtymn will be improvised with more modern feel/style and solo will be as baroque/classical as before!the guitar sound will be the same trademark-single-coil -big/low-gain and fatter/raw/big than before...sure things will be all english vocal tones, kind of the asian-way delivers the lyrics in english.we hope all of these will turns more success for us and hopefuly the acceptance from international fans.

Tell me about the Metal scene in your country. Is it easy for a Metal band to survive?

Symphonia: Local Metal mostly focus on Non-neoclassical Metal such as straight/heavy metal/death/black/punks o there quite great scenarios for these followers-a lots of gigs and show for them-good demand/supporters for them.but there're nearly few to none a band concept favours the wordly acclaim/accepted power/melodic/speed/baroque metal style as in europe,consider it as underground here, many major label wont sign these concept until now, only a brave indie/private self-fund label will go through it.luckily some and growing no of metal online website/blogging has unite all these metal genres and features/dedicate/provide many forum's sections for all these kind of metal through their channels.

Did mySpace help Symphonia to establish a strong fan-base? Do you have fans from other countries as well?

Symphonia: Yes it is indeed one of the right/most viewed channel currently! Good for promotion. We've fully utilised this channel. We're glad to have more friends and fans through this way. Plus countless promotion on guitar metal/non-metal musical related websites, many local/intl. musical forums also help! Yes, so far we had good local followers through self-efforts/close friends-agent promotion channels. International will be on progress basis - on the way to make it happen!were now planning to spread our music in asian countries first - more on Indonesia (big population) as Ark Storm does now. There're also a number of fans from Sweden, USA, Japan, Greece (thanks to u) as well.we would like to gather as much as reviews now-one of the promotion tools.

Which is you ultimate musical dream?

Symphonia: To achieve the greatest musical success internationally and of course by that time Symphonia will have its' own identity of fans-accepted/blended musical ideas/elements.

Dimitris Starakis

Abstract Symphony – Infinite Desire Demo 2007 review

2008-03-19T13:17:00.002+02:00

Abstract Symphony – Infinite Desire Demo 2007

After the great Symphonia, I am so happy to enjoy another great newcomer, this time from Chile! The band started out in 2001 as an Yngwie Malmsteen tribute band, but in 2003 the leader of Absract Symphony, Esteban Hulloa decided to put an end to the tribute-attitude and started to compose songs in the Neoclassical vein. In about two year time, the band had composed a total of more than 10 songs. After various auditions and a lot of line up changes the band finally has an stable line up with David Rebolledo on drums (ex Endriago, Santiago based band), Juan Andres Oyaneder on bass and Esteban Hulloa Castro on guitars (ex Ring of Steel). In early 2006 the band began recording a total of 10 songs. After the drums were recorded, Matias and Felipe parted ways with the band because of musical differences .The band concentrated 100% in recording what would later became the "Infinite Desire" demo. Singer Marcelo Carvajal, who later recorded the vocals on all 6 songs from the demo, finished recording in mid 2007, while Esteban finished recording, mixing and mastering of the demo late 2007.
The demo consists of 6 songs, including a guitar intro and an organ outro and it is really well-crafted. All musicians are professionals, with some fabulous work on guitar by Esteban, who really knows how to produce thrilling Neoclassical Metal compositions! Marcelo’s vocals are melodic and really flow with the songs, while keyboardist JJ Roldán surely does a fine job (check out his solo in "Into Your Eyes")! From the fast-paced and fabulous title track to the melodic ballad "Nobody Know’s" to the flashy "Into Your Eyes", the band maintained a high level of truly worth-mentioning songs! The production in this demo could have been better, but I am sure that in their debut CD, Abstract Symphony will be ready to storm the world with some A-class Neoclassical stuff. You can download Abstract Symphony’s Demo for free in the following address: http://www.myspace.com/abstractsymphonyband
Dimitris Starakis
P.S.: The band is rehearsing now and putting the finishing touches for their very first album with the following line-up: Esteban Hulloa V. (guitar lead guitars), Esteban Hulloa Castro (guitar), Marcelo Carvajal (vocals), JJ Roldán (keys), Juan Andrés Oyaneder (bass), Sebastián Pontigo (drums)

Symphonia – Satria Naga CD review

2008-03-18T19:19:00.004+02:00

Symphonia – Satria Naga CD (Symphonia Musical Fidelity Inc.)

If you wonder what “Neoclassicism” really means, then the easiest way nowadays is to do a simple…web search! If you do it, you’ll definitely find something like this: “Speaking and thinking in English, "neoclassicism" in each art implies a particular canon of "classic" models”*. Neoclassical Metal was always based on structures that will never fade the test of time. Demanding, inspirational and highly qualitative, it is still considered the most demanding genre of Metal. A brief look to the artists that tried to “go by the Neoclassical book”, proves that talent mixes with excellent performance in order to create some advances musical forms.
When I discovered the band Symphonia, I was extremely surprised to witness that they were coming from Kuala Lumpur! It was a pleasant shock to see that Malaysia was lucky enough to present a wonderful Neo-baroque Metal band which will surely has the right to hope for success! Symphonia’s debut “Satria Naga” was released lately and includes 11 songs of bright virtuosity. Aman, the “brainchild” of the band has completely dedicated his musical studies in re-inventing traditional Neoclassical Metal and he surely has the class and the ability to compose songs with that significant guitar sound which always give a vibe of joy to the devoted followers of the scene! Apart from Aman’s amazing composing and playing abilities, Zul’s voice is smoothly fitted into the songs and gives the necessary strength contrast (sic) in the vocal lines, something that cannot be avoided in traditional Neoclassical Metal. Z9’s (strange nickname!) bass lines keep the rhythm going and provide an additional positive mark in the CD. The debut album from Symphonia is an enjoyment form the beginning to the very end and if you want to taste some of their greatness, just listen to the riff from “Wira” and you can immediately get the idea! The band is preparing their 2nd effort, which will include exclusively English-sung lyrics, sin hope that this will help the band to expand their reputation in many countries. I strongly suggest to each and every fan of this significant Metal to help these young musicians, since their enthusiastic beginning should be continued! Get all the necessary info on how to obtain their album on their mySpace profile: http://www.myspace.com/symphoniamalaysia
Dimitris Starakis

P.S.: The band is also participating in the “A Tribute to Yngwie.J.Malmsteen Project” album which is the 1st YJM tribute album from local Malaysian bands! Symphonia covers “Rising Force” and “As Above, So Below” and their performance is once again splendid!

*wikipedia

OSV - Mission One CD review

2008-02-13T16:38:00.001+02:00

OSV – Mission One CD (Independent)

Having witnessed the interesting collaboration of some fine and high-skilled musicians like Bassist Steve Sexton, drummer Gary Oppert (who both cooperated with my always favourite guitarist Matthew Mills) and guitarist Brandon Vaughn I was expecting the OSV project and when I finally got it, I witnessed some wonderful musicianship form guys who didn't just decided to invite guitarists like Mathias Holm and Paco Hernandez for fun. “Mission One” consists of 12 tracks of faultless executed Fusion/Prog/Neo-classical and at times Shred Metal, inspired mostly from our beautiful and mysterious Universe. This music could be easily characterised as the “Official Soundtrack Of Our Solar System”! Dreamy melodies, prog rhythms and a special atmosphere consists the world that the listener will meet as soon as he starts listening to the CD. It's really hard to pick a certain song, since evey single one captures a variety of positive emotions, proving at the same time that sometimes music can be intensively expressed without the help of words. The power of sweet melodies, demanding rythm breaks and inspiring riffs is steel strong and I believe that this album is not destined from musicians to musicians only. I should also add here that in “Mission One”, guitar parts are also contributed from Jean-Do Leonelli (742) and Chris Cavera (Killbot Zero). “Mission One” is distributed on several web-stores through the net, so check the band's mySpace profile (http://www.myspace.com/osproject) for additional info on how to obtain it.
Dimitris Starakis

Black Fate – Deliverance Of Soul promo CD review

2008-02-12T10:49:00.000+02:00

Black Fate – Deliverance Of Soul promo CD

How can someone be totally objective when he listens to the newest work of one of his all-time favourite Greek bands? Black Fate were formed in 1990 in Larisa and thrilled the followers of Greek Underground Metal by releasing two magnificent demos entitled “Black Fate” and “A Piece Of Dream”. In 2002 their first full length "Uncover" was released from Secret Port Records, presenting also some line-up changes. 5 years later, with singer Vasilis Georgiou in their line up, Black Fate released a promo including 3 tracks: “Blood Red Sky”, “If The Silence” and “Dying Freedom”. That particular “appetiser” showcased an almost radical change in the band’s sound, since Georgiou’s voice added a sentimental direction and made them focus even more on melody in their Power/Progressive Metal style. I remember being a huge fan of Herakles Fanarakis (the band’s first singer), but I must admit that their new singer is the ideal person for Black Fate’s new musical direction. Black Fate sound more modern than ever, but the refreshing breeze in their sound made them even more appealing. Passionate compositions and vocals (with an intense influence from Roy Khan, so you can understand the high level of quality!), great and mature musicianship featuring quite some catchy moments in their songs are the highlight’s in Black Fate’s trademark, so I personally believe that since the band is looking for a record contract to release this album, the labels must contact them! Don’t ask me to choose my favourite track. It’s impossible since I never stop enjoying the wonderful “Inner Warning Of My Soul” (fantastic chorus as always!), the astonishing “Blood Red Sky (with my favourite eastern influences, this song, along with “Dying Freedom” and “If The Silence” that appeared in Promo 2007 were re-arranged for this full length CD). There are also some fine acoustic moments like the song “Wicked”, while “Thorn In My Hand” is ultra-melodic, groovy and another highlight! "The Conscience Of The Brave” starts with a totally inspired riff and great leads while the tracks unfolds (you’ll meet a lot in this album!) and “Angry Silent Scream” is a mid-tempo song, featuring the heaviest parts of the entire album, along with a sing-along chorus! I would lie if I wrote that I didn’t enjoy every single moment of this album! Band’s mySpace profile: http://www.myspace.com/blackfateband
Dimitris Starakis

Wrath Of Wolves – The Obstreperous Dragon Demo review

2008-01-24T19:16:00.000+02:00

Wrath Of Wolves – The Obstreperous Dragon Demo

Definitely a name for a Black Metal-oriented band! But that's half the truth! Well, this project was formed when Blackstorm witnessed the decline of Black Metal in 2005 and fortunately guitarist Antony Storm decided to follow a more qualitative direction by composing skillful music with progressive and Neo-classical elements. What I got from the band is a four-track demo with inspiring moments, deeply influenced by Yngwie J. Malmsteen, Uli Jon Roth and the great pioneers of the scene! In the band's forthcoimng album, Derek Sherinian will contribute the keyboard parts as a session musician, while current Yngwie J. Malmsteen’s Rising Force’s drummer Patrick Johansson will be also invited to torture his drum leathers. All four songs are fast-pasted tracks, with precisely executed parts and crystal clear performance from Mr. Antony something that will not pass unnoticed from all Neo-classical Metal aficionados! Shining arpeggios mix with galloping rhythms and memorable riffs showcase the great abilities and many promises that this project reveals. The band is also ready to enter the studio in order to record their debut full length with the above mentioned guests, so stay tuned for some major updates from the band’s camp! Check their mySpace profile: http://www.myspace.com/uswolves
Dimitris Starakis

White Witch – Never Dies The Dream… CD review

2008-01-14T21:24:00.001+02:00

White Witch – Never Dies The Dream... CD (Independent Release)
I delayed the review of White Witch’s third effort that was released right before the end of 2007, but that happened to some obligatory circumstances that I could not overpass. I expected the follow up to “The Power” with great anticipation and I was pleasantly surprised to witness a nice starter like the song “Slaughter In Salem” is: Powerful and catchy so my appetite for the rest of the album was growing. The duet “Singleman” and “Game That I Play” however pulled my break, they were it was too commercial for my ears, while “Prince of Darkness” was in the same vein, but I enjoyed most its chorus. But since i trusted this band in their previous album, I somehow felt that they would not let me down! “Underneath The Lights” is the song that White Witch knows how to create and turn the power up. That’s the style of the band that I enjoy again and again: Decent Hard Rock, with wonderful chorus and guitars that stuck in your mind! Uncle Jeff’s performance in that song and the way that sings is what really appeals to me! “The Seed” is mid-tempo track with an atmosphere close to the first era of Black Sabbath when the song begins. This is the song also tha carries the guitar parts that gave White Witch that specific trademark which makes them special! “Street Corner Madness” is the most powerful song of the CD and definitely my pick! I think White Witch saved the best for last and really offered us a great dynamite! The third album of the band showcases once again their talent and if they manage to be careful with the production and with some Rock N’ Roll songs that reduces their might (guys, the style that fits you lies in “Street Corner Madness”), then their 4rd CD might give them also their first record contract! Contact the band for more info at: http://www.whitewitchrocks.com/ . Their mySpace profile: http://www.myspace.com/whitewitchrocks
Dimitris Starakis

Andy A. Sartori Interview

2007-11-17T11:30:00.000+02:00

To be honest, when I first listened to the samples of the forthcoming solo album of guitarist Andy A. Sartori, I couldn’t believe my ears! Finally his first album “Dragon’s Fire” is available through itunes and it proved to be a real masterpiece Of Neo-classical Power Metal! I lost no time and I contacted Andy for a detailed interview, so you can read the rest…

Can we have some more info regarding the rest of the members of your Symphony project?
Sartori: Well....the band consists of: Scott Board on the vocals (ex Cerebus), James Creed on the bass who's someone who's with me for years since my London times and on drums I have Dino Castano. Dino grew up in New Jersey but he's from Italy and he’s the only new member on this project at the moment.

Will the line-up of your first CD remain “untouched” for the next releases?
Sartori: Well, as you know I'm a solo guitar player so I can't tell for how long these musicians will stay with me, what is something that happens to all solo guitar players anyway, but we all click together very well, so I hope we last together as long as possible!

9 splendid tracks of qualitative Neo-classical Power Metal are included in your debut CD and I must congratulate you for that. Can you focus in the lyrical content and tell us what your lyrics are about?
Sartori: I think it's really hard to make many comments on my songs as I'm the composer, but all of them were composed by inspiration, they all came from riffs and ideas and I love them all!! About the lyrics… well, all of my lyrics are very positive, you won't find anything evil or negative on my songs or my lyrics at all. In a few ones I talk about personal experiences I had through my life just because I use some fantasy, but who doesn't write about kings, queens and dragons???
“Through The Eyes Of My Soul” is a classic one already, in my opinion! Which is your favorite song from the album?
Sartori: In my opinion it's really hard to tell, like I said before I love all of them. Just think this: I don't compose songs just to finish albums or because I needed an extra song. All these songs were composed with inspiration and passion, so it's really hard to tell.

I must note however that the bad production of the songs posted in itunes is a major drawback of the album. Why they don’t have the proper sound? Do you plan to do something about it?
Sartori: Well record labels are for me what I call "necessary evil" because without them if you compose original music and you want to be in the business, you're not going nowhere. So I expected something good and they gave something completed different, but it's being fixed now !!! I was in the studio redoing all the equalization, mixing and mastering of it!!! So very soon, they will release the new version what will be what it suppose to be...a proper album!!! And I can ensure all my fans that they won't be disappointed!!!

When do you plan to release “Dragon’s Fire” in CD format?
Sartori: It depends on the label and I have no information at the moment about it! As more people will ask for the album in stores, the faster they will release it.

How difficult is for a virtuoso to survive in the current U.S. Metal scene? Does qualitative music is destined for extinction in the U.S.?
Sartori: It's not that bad if you are in the right place! there's a lot of market here for anything really...that's why a lot o bands can still tour and survive, and like any other kind of metal I can truly say it's something that will never die, that's space for everybody, you just have to find yours!

Tell me about your musical influences that forced you to play this kind of music. Which bands also attract you nowadays?
Sartori: Well, my mother is a classically trained piano player and my father always played the acoustic guitar so since I was a little kid I had always been into music, but I grew up listening to classical baroque music and metal and rock I found about it when I was about 10 and never gave up after that!!! my influences come from Bach, Vivaldi, Mozart, Beethoven and as guitar players I used to study many from Yngwie Malmsteen, Paul Gilbert, Kee Marcelo and the list goes. What I did was learn whatever I needed and from all of this, make my own style based on my influences, and I think that's pretty ok as often you don't copy anybody....

Is there any possibility of touring in order to promote your work?
Sartori: Yes, the record company doesn't set tours but they have some booking agencies they work with so they can hook us up. There's nothing set yet.

You released your album through itunes. Do you think that digital downloading is the future which will help artists survive against the “slavery” of big record labels??
Sartori: No, never!!!! Because like I said...record labels are necessary evil, but remember...necessary, so any band will always depend on them to go somewhere on their careers unless you make your own record label, I really don't think itunes is the future at all!!! Because from digital you have the songs but not the true album, so when you buy the album in a store you get the real thing with all the booklet, photos and etc....

What is your future plan regarding your project? Do you also plan to work on some other projects as well?
Sartori: My plans are just to keep going, my next album is already predicted for September 2008, and at the moment I don't have any plans to do any different project at all!

Add anything you may want.
Sartori: So I'd like to thank you once again for all the support and to all my fans around the world: thank you very much for all the love and support through all these years, you're the best!!!! God bless you all!!!
Dimitris Starakis

Andy A. Sartori & Symphony – Dragon’s Fire review

2007-11-06T11:59:00.000+02:00

Andy A. Sartori & Symphony – Dragon’s Fire (Digital Album)

When Andy decided to release "Dragon’s Fire" through iTunes, I downloaded the album with no hesitation. The three demo songs I reviewed some months ago really made anticipate for the full length album and now that I have it, I dare to say that this is one of the best albums I’ve listened to the last couple of years. Andy’s compositions are truly faultless on “Dragon’s Fire”! Having a gifted singer like Scott Board on the band’s marks (for those who don’t know, Scott sang on Cerebus’ “Too Late To Pray” album), the combination of brilliant guitar playing and triumphant, crystal clear vocals is what is needed for an album to become a classic one! It’s almost impossible to choose a favorite track in Dragon’s Fire: “Through The Eyes Of My Soul” has a riff that is inspirational, while the vocal lines makes want to listen to this pompous Metal Hymn again and again! “Evil Heart”, Dragon’s Fire” and “Devil In Disguise” are based on thunderous, pounding rhythm, while once again Scott delivers the message for starting the battle! “Battle In The Distant Lands” is once again triumphant epic opus with a Neo-classical riff that fits the song and a sing-along chorus! “From Hell To Heaven” showcases Andy’s abilities to compose more melodic-oriented songs and once again the result is astonishing! “Castle of Lost Souls” was once named “Desert Of Lost Souls” and is an instrumental based on Phrygian scales, while not neglecting a strongly Baroque influence, so you can understand that passion and inspiration here are quite high! I could write for hours and hours cosmetic words about this masterpiece that made me proud being a fan of this demanding genre of Metal music! Andy’s solos really sending each and every song to the next level and the most important thing is that he isn’t based on clichés in order to create a boring Power Metal album with intense Neo-classical melodies. Andy is truly one of the most inspirational guitarists and composers that I’ve listened in the underground scene!!
The digital version of "Dragon’s Fire" has only one drawback, and this isn’t the quality of the songs. I’m referring to the bad production that the songs have and it really destroys in songs like Through The Eyes Of My Soul” the grandiose feeling that the composer want to create. I’ve talked to Andy and he told that he will personally remaster the CD before its normal release, so the people will have soon in their hands a true state-of-the art! “Dragon’s Fire” is not only highly recommended, but its our duty to support gifted artists like Andy! Visit his mySpace profile: http://www.myspace.com/andysartori for all the latest updates concerning his next steps.
Dimitris Starakis

Maestro – Diary Of A Vampire CD review

2007-10-31T09:26:00.000+02:00

Maestro – Diary Of A Vampire CD (Independent Release)

Dany Milett is a rare singer by any means. Dany's vocal cords are very thin like a young boy and his larynx is smaller than a normal man. This has a result of producing some high pitched vocal lines, reaching also up to five octaves! His CD is more of a concept album, with songs based on lyrically on vampirism, was released in 2005 and reflects Danny’s passion for Power Metal with many Neo-classical elements. One bright example of my saying is “To My Mentors”; its melodic riff is ideal for the fans of this musical style and Dany’s voice is expressive, contributing the ideal atmosphere to this song. Dany is definitely gifted and reveals his abilities on the CD, but I have the opinion that he must control his falsetto, since there are times in a few songs in which he is exaggerating. On the other hand, when a gifted vocalist is releasing his debut solo CD, it obvious that he needs to showcase his abilities, by presenting a wide range of singing styles. His classical studies have also helped him to incorporate his classical oriented vocal attitude to his singing. As a songwriter, Dany does a fine job. Songs like the Heavy “Blood Hunt”, the brilliant “Burning Eternity” (my favourite track of the CD) and “Blood Bath” with the haunting riff really show his songwriting talent and his passion for quality Power Metal music. Each of the songs on “Diary Of A Vampire” showcases a riff that stuck in the listener’s mind, while the solos are enjoyable. I am pretty sure that Dany will be featured on many albums in the near future since his skills cannot be neglected. Remember his name, there’s surely a promising career for him. Check out Dany’s mySpace profiles: http://www.myspace.com/danymilett and http://www.myspace.com/lordcastrato

P.S.: I was later informed by Dany himself that Maestro Pero (guitarist) was the composer of the album "Diary Of A Vampire", so credit for the songwriting must go to him.

Dimitris Starakis

Ofsoski Interview

2007-10-16T10:10:00.000+03:00

I always enjoy talking with multi-talented musicians, like Richard Ofsoski. His first solo CD "Later Than Never" was really promising as far as the future of this uprising artist, so I thought that he could share with us his opinion on several matters...

You got a courageous decision to release an album on your own. Why you decided that?

Ofsoski: Probably because in the past songs Ive written and recorded with other musicians never came out soundingthe way I wanted them to. I guess I'm a bad communicator haha, it's not their fault.Also I wanted an album that was just me so my children would be able to distinguish as being just their Dad. That's not to say I wont use other musicians on my next album because I probably will with the network of musician friends I now have. It is a hell of a lot of work doing it by yourself.

What were the impressions that you got from fans and press for your debut effort?

Ofsoski: It's been extroadinary really !! The album is not going to break any sales records being totally independent, but the feedback I've had has all been extremely positive .Initially I just wanted to do an album I could be proud of myself and if other people liked it then great. The great thing is my fanbase albeit small keep messaging wanting to know about what Im working on and how they cant wait for the next album which is extremely rewarding.I 'm starting to feel the pressure to finnish my next album haha and being a family guy it can be hard to find get enough time to do as much as you would like.

Which is your favorite track of the album and why?

Ofsoski: Probably 'Flame' although there are some others pretty close to it. I guess because it has all the elements I like in music.It has a nice majestic type classical sounding theme, heavy riffing, progressive elements, shred guitar and I dont seem to get tired of It. It takes me to a nice place.

Symphonic, Neo-classical, Baroque-ish Hard Rock and Metal are the best words in my opinion to define your musical style. Why you chose this particular style to express yourself?

Ofsoski: You're pretty much on the money there I think. I have been a fan of many styles of melodic style metal for years now andI guess that has rubbed off on my writing style. Also a big fan of classical style melody and mystic type themes and I think this style of music helps me to express my true self.

Which are you main musical influences?

Ofsoski: I listen to a lot of melodic metal which can cover a wide range. I grew up loving Yngwie Malmsteen, Dio, Judas Priest, Kiss, Metallica, Whitesnake etc. and also dig a lot of the newer stuff like Nightwish and Sonata Arctica. I also really love Bach and Vivaldi and I guess a lot of these styles have rubbed off on me.

How difficult is for a musician in Australia to find some “partners in crime” that share the same musical taste?

Ofsoski: It's growing rapidly of late, we are having so many bands announcing tours, so its hard to keep up. It was pretty dead about 5 years ago but the new generation has really warmed to it. I've met a lot of people recently who share similar tastes in music.

If you had only one opinion in you career what would that be: singer or guitarist?

Ofsoski: Guitarist !! I only sang because I'd form or join a band and get lumbered with the job because they could never find anyone. I don't mind singing now but used to hate it because I just wanted to concentrate on guitar. Things have changed now and I quite enjoy fitting all the different instuments together it can be a lot of fun. I really don't even practise the guitar anymore unless I'm putting a solo together.

Is it true that you have already new material for a new solo effort? Tell me how it sounds like..

Ofsoski: Yes, it's pretty much written. I'm just refining and experimenting with things at present. Theres a wide variety of styles and grooves incorporating all the music elements that I like and I think the songs are very stong, If they weren't, I would scrap them. I'll have a demo mix on my mySpace profile very soon.

You are also a member of the band Sedition. Why you joined them and which are the main differences between your solo band,in terms of sound? I've been friends Ofsoski: With Sinclair the guitarist for a number of years and I knew he was having trouble finding a new singerfor the band. he had started demo recordings for the new album so I offered to help him out singing on the demos untilhe could find someone permanent. He had never heard me sing before and really liked how my voice fitted into the music andasked me to join. I was a bit sceptical at first because I wouldnt be able to commit fully but its turned out ok and has been lots of fun performing live with the guys. Sedition is a bit different to my solo stuff, it has more of an old school thrashy style edge to it and a different songwriting of course.

Do you plan to include full-time members and do some touring as Ofsoski in the near future?Ofsoski: There will be other players on the next release. So far I'll be using Simon Polhil to do bass duties, he's a phenomenal player and great kid. Check out this link to a video of him playing http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.channel&ChannelID=111000312 .As far as playing live I'm starting to get asked this a lot so I may have to at some stage, especially if things keep going the way they are but it wont be until after the next album then we'll see what happens.

Dimitris Starakis

Seasons Of The Wolf – Nocturnal Revelation CD review

2007-09-26T11:06:00.000+03:00

Seasons Of The Wolf – Nocturnal Revelation CD (Earth Mother Music)

Seasons Of The Wolf was founded on 1988 and up to now the band established its name in the U.S. Underground scene by releasing 4 CD up to now. Their latest album, “Once In A Blue Moon” was released this summer and it’s starting to receive its first positive reviews. The band’s style remain unchanged as the deep blue sea: Obscure Heavy Metal, with haunting vocals that often remind me Udo Dirkschneider’s voice, while the whole atmosphere is haunting, eerie and totally obscure! The band also contributes some keyboard parts in their sound in order to make their sound more pompous and the result is clear in gloomy tunes like “Skulls”. SOTW’s music never followed the wave of a current trend, that’s why they kept a stable amount of fans. Some 70’s Hard Rock touches are reflected in their sound, but they have created an overall unique result, by making things heavier and quite more “metallic”. Their solid sound and the authenticity that characterizes their stuff in “Nocturnal Revelation” makes me predict that their new album is even better, since they seem to progress in each CD they release. I can’t wait to listen to their new album!! Check their mySpace profile: http://www.myspace.com/seasonsofthewolf Band’s web-site: sotwmetal.com
Dimitris Starakis

The Famous-X promo CD review

2007-08-30T10:03:00.000+03:00

The Famous-X – promo CD

This Italian project features Highlord’s guitarist Sted and singer Andrea who wanted to try their abilities into Hard Rock / Melodic Metal fields. The project started in the summer of 2005 and recently a promo was created in order to help them search for a record contract. What I like in their style is that they are powerful and not mellow, by keeping their power and also contributing some memorable and melodic choruses along with great solos. The self-titled track and “Bullet Time” are pretty good samples of how Hard Rock / Melodic Metal should be performed and I am pretty sure that the rest of the tracks that the band have completed, will be on the same level of quality. I really need to listen to some more stuff from them and I believe that pretty soon the project will be under a proper label. Good luck to you guys, I’m sure you’ll have it! Band’s mySpace profile: http://www.myspace.com/afamousx
Dimitris Starakis

Faith Factor - 07/07/07 mini-CD review

2007-08-30T09:41:00.000+03:00

Faith Factor – 07/07/07 mini-CD (Metallic Archangel Records)

From South New Jersey a new U.S. Metal sensation has risen! Faith Factor is a Christian Metal band who will take the world by storm. Their first EP titled “07/07/07” shows clearly that there’s a White Metal orientation in the band’s lyrical content. As for the music, galloping riffs and pompous rhythms combined with the wonderful and steel voice of Ski will definitely cause waves of enthusiasm in every U.S. Metal fan. For those who forgot or don’t know, Ski is the singer of another sensational U.S. band named Deadly Blessing in their first effort titled “Ascend From The Cauldron” and also on their comeback CD, entitled “An Eye To the Past”! He was also a member of the band Altered State. For those who are familiar with Ski’s voice will definitely go and buy his new effort without even reading the rest of this review! As for the Faith Factor EP, “Prayer Warriors” opens the CD and it’s a storming track with a galloping riff which leads you into pure metallic satisfaction! “The Angel And The Butterfly” is a brilliant Metal opus, which starts like a ballad and ends as a wonderful Power Metal Hymn! It’s needless to mention Ski’s monumental performance here! “Deceiver” reminded me at times the great legends of U.S. Metal Mystic Force and it is once again a furious U.S. Power Metal song which will delight each and everyone who digs this particular style! The band is really focusing in promoting their new CD and also plans to play some show in Europe next year, so prepare yourselves for some thundering live attack from Ski and his bandmates! Buy Or Die! Band’s mySpace profile: http://www.myspace.com/faithfactorrocks Band’s web-site: http://www.faithfactor.info/
Dimitris Starakis

Ofsoski – Later Than Never CD review

2007-08-13T09:51:00.000+03:00

Ofsoski – Later Than Never CD (Independent)

When I first reviewed Ofsoski’s promo tracks, I then stated that the scene welcomed a creative multi-instrumentalist. When I listened to his debut album, I can now strongly support the opinion that Richard is indeed a gifted man! Ten tracks of Neo-classical / Symphonic Metal filled with well-crafted melodies and intense feelings rule the album which really is labeled as "high-quality". In my previous review, I expressed my admiration to the wonderful song titled “Flame”. Now, along with “Flame”, I was surprised from another hymn which will be greatly received from every Neo-classical Metal aficionado! “Quest” is definitely once again one of the greatest songs composed this year in the genre and believe me, you don’t have to be a wise man of music to compose it; what is needed is inspiration and passion for what you do. Well, Richard combines both. From the sharp and melodic riffs he composes to his harsh and melodic voice, it clear that he must form a band in order to perform his songs with an overall better sound and of course get the distribution and attention he deserves. “Later Than Never” is an album destined to establish Richard’s fame and I believe that his next step will feature full-time members in his band. Highly recommended release! Check Ofsoski's profile in order to find out how you can order the album: http://www.myspace.com/ofsoski
Dimitris Starakis

Max The Axe’s Blazing Star – Demo CD review

2007-07-06T20:06:00.000+03:00

Max The Axe’s Blazing Star – Demo CD

Italy is quite famous for a bunch of delicate guitarists that appear on the country’s Metal scene. Aldo Giuntini, Dario Mollo and many more guitarists in some fine Italian bands always presented their fine work through their albums, solo or band-guided. Max The Axe is another guitarist who released his first demo with the valuable help of bassist Tomas Ticciati and vocalist Tomasso Lanese who also handles the production duties. The demo includes 4 tracks of Heavy / Neo-classical Metal, filled with pretty high-demanding guitar leads and quite nice vocals. The band’s musical identity remains mostly on the Heavy side, without being too “symphonic”, perhaps due to the lack of intense keyboard parts. So, fans that like a heavier edge on Neo-classical Metal will definitely appreciate their sound. The opening song “Blazing Star” is a typical double-bass opener with a great chorus and flashy leads, while “Love Criminal” is quite melodic with some interesting vocal lines. “Father Time”, as you can guess from its title, is a cover on Stratovarius song, while “Adagio” is the instrumental track based on Albinoni’s theme and it creates an atmosphere with the all-time classic melody. I really wish to listen to more songs from the band since this project from Florence can really achieve a lot more. Contact the band through their mySpace profile and found out how you can purchase their demo: http://www.myspace.com/maxblazingstar. Band’s web-site (written in Italian: http://blazingstar.interfree.it/ )
Dimitris Starakis

7th Reign – S/t CD Review

2007-07-02T19:48:00.001+03:00

7th Reign – S/t CD (Independent)

When I first received the 7th Reign CD, I had a strange feeling that it will be a major highlight. And thankfully I was 100% right! The U.S. quartet was formed in 2005 by guitarist Marios Panayiotis (yes, he is a Greek!) and ex-Eidolon vocalist Brian Soulard. The man who helped these two musicians to meet was none other than Glen Drover (ex- Megadeth / Eidolon guitarist). The band, after completing its line-up, started rehearsing and at the same time composing the songs that would end in their debut CD. During the recording of their 1st album, Fuz Z, the bassist of 7th Reign left and it was time for a third Eidolon member to join in. Adrian Robichaud joined forces and the recordings were completed with the band feeling absolutely satisfied with the final result. The CD was officially released on March 2007 and it featured 8 brilliant songs. I am using the cosmetic word “brilliant”, because a fan of the U.S. Power metal scene can now find in the album everything he is longing to listen! Wonderful and powerful vocals, astonishing riffs and a solid rhythm section is what 7th Reign consists of. Marios has the ability of composing songs that are destined to become immediate classics such as the neck breaking “Defied” (the chorus is a fine example of what U.S. band can only offer!) or the 10 minute long Opus “Asylum”. He is also adding a Neo-classical atmosphere to the songs with his highly-demanding solos and riffs that are storming out of his Stratocaster, something which makes the sound of the band so special. In the closing track titled “Executioner”, Marios present also his marvellous abilities by composing an 8-minute long instrumental track, without having any dull moment in it! He is without doubt a virtuoso and a true leader of the band. 7th Reign, along with Mindwarp Chamber, Katagory V etc. continue the great tradition of the U.S. Power Metal bands and they are proud messengers of the great heritage that was established form bands like Oliver Magnum, Mystic Force, Lethal and many more. I am pretty sure that their talent will not be wasted and their debut will not stay unnoticed. 7th Reign can offer much more ground-breaking moments since this is only in their very first step. As for you fans, what are you waiting for? Order immediately a masterpiece of the U.S. Power Metal Scene! Visit the band’s web-site: http://www.7threign.com/ and their mySpace profile:
http://www.myspace.com/7threign
Dimitris Starakis

Masa Fire Hoshino – Demo 2006 CD review

2007-06-28T19:18:00.000+03:00

Masa Fire Hoshino – Demo 2006 CD

Japan has a great tradition when it comes to Melodic Metal. But. due to the fact that most bands sing in Japanese, their fame could not easily spread overseas. The great bands that emerged from the land of the rising sun are numerous to mention and thankfully we witness often new musicians appearing and adding some wonderful music to the country’s musical heritage. One of these promising musicians is Masaharu F. Hoshino, a guitarist who, after his graduation from the Guitar Institute Of Technology in Hollywood, started composing songs that ended up in his debut effort simply entitled “Demo 2006”. Masa didn’t include only instrumental tracks in this CD, but he also contributed mostly fine vocal songs, with the help of his friend Leo Loebenberg, who is also a student at the Vocal Institute Of Technology. Masa is a fan of Power Metal music and his passion is reflected on the songs he composes. “Engrave Your Names”, “At The Second Crossroads” and my favourite “Heavenwards” (yeap, the Neo-classical atmosphere here is quite intense, he, he!) are wonderful tracks with memorable riffs and fine vocal lines, something that proves that, apart from his excepted advanced guitar abilities, Masa is also a great composer, when it comes to Melodic Power Metal. There’s no way of listening to each song from Masa’s Demo and forgetting the basic riff and the main melody after each song is finished! Songs “Pop #001” and “Pop #002” are midi tunes in which Masa is trying to present a more melodic side of his songwriting. The song “Fire Ressurection” features some fine melodies and harmonies, but the death-like vocals are spoiling the whole result. I would love to listen to this song with “clean” vocals in it. As a conclusion, Masa Fire, who is currently searching for a band proves that he has a bright future ahead of him and I’m sure that we will witness his abilities in a proper band! Good Luck Masa! Check out his mySpace profile at: www.myspace.com/masafire and e-mail him at: flamesilently@yahoo.co.jp
Dimitris Starakis

Ioannis Anastassakis – Suspension Of Disbelief CD review

2007-06-22T09:30:00.000+03:00

Ioannis Anastassakis – Suspension Of Disbelief CD (Wild Rose Angel Productions)

First of all, I am really flattered since an artist like Ioannis has sent out to me his CD for a review in my blog. For those who don’t know Ioannis, he’s a true virtuoso flamenco guitar player and his extraordinary abilities are clearly showcased in the already classic “Flamenco Live At Ioannina” CD which was released in 2001. Being a student of one of the greatest flamenco maestros, Juan Serrano, Ioannis’ talent could not stay hidden and soon the world and of course Greece discovered a true master of the six-string. At the same time, something that is also revealed in The “Flamenco Live..”, Ioannis couldn’t not hide his great passion for Metal music and he mentioned in his thanks list the numerous virtuosos of the genre such as Yngwie J. Malmsteen, Vinnie Moore, Michael Romeo, etc.! His brand new CD “Suspension Of Disbelief” reflects also the “electric” side of him, since this time, only 3 tracks of out a total of 11 (“Variations Of Malaguena”, “Dos Hermanos (Bulerias)”, “Flamenco Journal – At A glance”) are flamenco-oriented. I am definitely not a flamenco–expert but I cannot hold myself from showing my admiration to the passionate Spanish sound of Ioannis guitar! A demanding style like flamenco can only performed fluently by great maestros and definitely Ioannis is a member of the pack!
The “electric” side of Ioannis is simply surprising. The opening self-titled track of the CD mixes various styles such as jazzy/fusion and a little funk elements with melodic harmonies as Ioannis comments also in the booklet. A truly enjoyable track, but the second track of the CD left me speechless! “Caravan Of Despair Suite” is an 11 minute and 13 second long masterpiece, an unrepeatable anthem in modern instrumental Metal music! Full of passionate and Phrygian-inspired moments, with the female vocal melodies giving a mysterious tone from the very beginning, the song is a great example of how Neo-classical Metal should be sound! Imagine that Ioannis dedicated this state-of-the-art song to Yngwie J. Malmsteen, when at the same time other so-called “geniuses” guitarists have always fear in mentioning his name (another bright example such as Ioannis is the always amazing Michael Romeo!)! I could comment a song like “Caravan...” for days but simply, there are no words to give a comprehensive description of its greatness! Another wonderful, catchy and worthy to mention instrumental tracks is “The Forgotten Quest”, with a “sweet” main melody that easily becomes familiar to your ear. This could easily become a vocal song also! Along with the above mentioned songs, I must also highlight “The Final Jam”, a “guitar battle” featuring bright hopes and already established guitar players that Ioannis gathered especially for this song. Alex Flouros, Lakis Regazas, 15-year-old George Emmanouel, Marcel Coenen, Theodore Ziras, Constantine, Bob Katsionis and of course Ioannis contribute their solo performances and once again the result is splendid! “Suspension Of Disbelief” is an album not only destined for instrumental music aficionados but also for every listener that enjoys music as an art form! Visit Ioannis’ mySpace profile: http://www.myspace.com/ioannisanastassakis and don’t forget to check also his web-site (http://www.ioannis.org/) if you want further details for his teaching courses and also his instructional releases.
P.S.: I must also not forget to mention the highly detailed booklet that accompanies the CD and it features songs comments, bio info and an interview of Ioannis. This is how well-cared releases should be done!

Dimitris Starakis

9/6/2007, Greek Metal Festival in Heraclion, Crete, Greece

2007-05-31T13:05:00.000+03:00

Gray Broderick – Mythic Realms CD review

2007-05-31T12:35:00.000+03:00

Gray Broderick – Mythic Realms CD (Fossil Records)

Gray is not a novice in the U.S. Underground scene. While picking the guitar at the age of six, he studied hard to develop an advanced guitar technique and he is now considered one of the virtuosos of the Neo-Classical genre in the U.S. scene. While co-operating with many bands including Timejam, Mass Of Virtue, Amethyst, Allegiance, Nyxx, Metal in Action and Final Prophecy, among others. Gray also was constantly working on new musical ideas for his solo project, entitled Mythic Force. Under that name, he released several albums, including “Dark Legions”, “Metal Machine”, “Realms Of Fire”, “Sacred Vision”, “Serenity”, “Mythic Force I”, “Mythic Force II” and “Mythic Force III”. While many of his tracks were also put on mp3.com, “Mythic Realms” came out in 2000 and is once again a collection of Gray’s ideas which ended up as instrumental songs. Even from a flashy listening, it’s obvious that his deeply focused on executing Neo-classical Metal songs with catchy melodies and quite skilful playing. Another fact which I quite enjoyed is that Gray flirts with Phrygian scales and there’s a strong “ala turca” feeling in many of his songs. One bright example is “Dawn Of The Dragon”, a significantly wonderful track that makes known to people that there’s much hidden quality out there and also notifies that Virtuoso guitarists are not an endangered species any more. “Horizons Of Glory” is another grand opus with a Phrygian-based riff and quite baroque atmosphere, which reveals also Gary’s abilities to compose lengthy tracks with even a dull second. It hard to pick favourite songs from “Mythic Realms”, since it’s an album destined for Neo-classical Metal fans and people who enjoy music with vision, passion and skilled performances.
If someone thinks that Gray’s career is on the end of the line, then he‘s proven wrong, since he’s already preparing his brand new effort! Check his mySpace profile for further updates on his work progress: http://www.myspace.com/mythicforce . Check also his web-site: http://mythicforce.com/home.html
Dimitris Starakis

Pandora’s Box – S/t CD review

2007-05-29T11:36:00.000+03:00

Pandora’s Box – S/t CD (Independent)

Formed in 2002 by keyboardist Achilleas Mochloulis and guitarist Loukas Avgerinos, Pandoras Box managed to release their first CD 4 years later. While the band suffered from constant line-up changes, they remained is a stable musical style, which is quite lyrical and melodic, with guitars and keyboards mixing and creating a dreamy atmosphere. Passion is vividly reflected in their songs and they try to stay focused on that, instead of composing songs that are “dry” and uninspiring. In the CD, the listener can meet Melodic Power Metal songs like “Into Your Eyes” and “Last Time” but also more Progressive compositions like the instrumental series “White Saga” (the second part is quite impressive!). The band is also experimenting in “Fairy” by adding some folk elements in their music and due to the fact that Giorgo’s voice is quite sentimental, they surely add points to their abilities. One strong example is “Crimes Of Love”, an atmospheric melodic Metal anthem with pompous keyboard parts and acoustic guitars mixing with “electricity”. The result is wonderful and definitely that particular song is the band’s strongest hit. Pandora’s Box, along with Ragenheart represents the “New Wave Of Melodic Metal” in Greece, except that Pandora’s Box also include some Hard Rock and AOR elements to their sound. It’s so nice to meet a band with reflected passion in their songs and I really wish to remain faithful in their style because there are really good in what they do! The band now has a new vocalist and they are working on new material, so check their mySpace profile at: http://www.myspace.com/pandorasboxgreece
Dimitris Starakis

Cauldron – Into The Cauldron review

2007-05-22T18:29:00.000+03:00

Cauldron – Into The Cauldron mini-CD (Basement Metal)

From the ashes of the Canadian Thrash band Goat Horn, a powerful Metal trio has risen to conquer the Metal World! Cauldron is a Power/Speed Metal trio with high voltage songs and break-neck rhythms that will definitely spread their reputation rapidly. The band recently performed live in “Up The Hammers” festival in Athens and everyone was extremely satisfied after their concert. That means a lot. From the very first notes of “The Striker Strikes”, it’s obvious that the band is full of energy and passion for high-octane Metal. The song has furious speed breaks and its ideal for a concert opener! “Into The Cauldron” is not so fast, but its structure is based into NWOBHM forms (Jason Decay’s voice sounds also pretty “British”). “Restless” is way too melodic for fans of Speed Metal but I have to say that is the song that will definitely become one of the band’s strongest hits. I personally love its melodies! The track which stands last in order is “Torture’s Too Kind” which combines speed with galloping riffs. Once again the vocal lines are catchy, while Ian Killpatrick, the guitarist of the band, contributes some highlighted solos, due to its wonderful performance. He is indeed a musician to notice and, to be honest, you don’t meet easily so skillful players in this genre. I got a bang out of their debut and I am sure that you’ll do also. Visit the band’s mySpace profile: http://www.myspace.com/cauldronmetal and find out how you can obtain their mini-CD
Dimitris Starakis

Gallows Tree – Two track Demo-CD review

2007-05-19T13:04:00.000+03:00

Gallows Tree – Two track Demo-CD

Another Metal band appeared from Larissa, Greece, so once again my sayings are proven right about the city’s rich Metal heritage. Gallows Tree released their first demo during the fall of 2006, in order to express themselves through their favourite music. The opening song titled “Fallen Society” is dark, pompous and really atmospheric, while Damos Harharidis (who was decided to handle the vocals due to the absence of a singer) has a expressive voice which really fits the style of the band. Damos will finally be the band’s lead singer since Thomas from Black Winter is the new guitarist of the band. One thing that I didn’t like is the howling vocals which appear in the song in lead and backing vocal parts. I felt the same thing when I first listened to Adagio’s latest album and I really believe that the band should continue with “clean” vocals in their songs. The second song, “Free Again” is more melodic, with a nice riff and once again a mid-tempo rhythm. No howling vocals appear here this time and I think that the band really showcases its abilities it that particular song. The guys really know, even if they quite young, how to create a dark and heavy atmosphere and I think that this fact add points to their unique identity. I wish them good luck to their following steps since they’ve already started working on new material and I am sure it will be even superior to this one. Visit the band’s mySpace profile and ask them how you can purchase their demo: http://www.myspace.com/gallowstreeband
Dimitris Starakis

CHIBI RARI – “Ichimaime” Mini-CD review

2007-05-15T18:26:00.000+03:00

CHIBI RARI – “Ichimaime” Mini-CD

Chibi Rari is a young and talented Power Metal band from the land of the rising sun. “Ichimaime” is their first effort and it features the female vocals of Akeno which definitely makes their sound different. Don’t expect any goth-type vocals here; Akeno’s voice is quite clean, deep and melodic and if you are familiar with the Japanese language then you’ll definitely like also her skills. I’m telling this because 99% of the lyrics are written in Japanese, something common for native Japanese bands. The opening track "比翼の眷族" and also "イシスの言霊" are Power/Speed Metal songs with strongly Neo-classical based riffs and they really go right with their style. But it’s not only speed the band’s greatest advantage. "いつか・・・" is quite melodic and sentimental at the same time. If you go through their songwriting, you can realize that Chibi Rari is a band which surely stands to reason in composing memorable and solid tracks in the future. The musicians are quite skillful (I really enjoyed Umihiko’s guitar solos) and since they’re young of age, the future belongs to them! I would only suggest them to start writing songs in English language, because they can surely spread their name outside the Japanese borders. Check their web-site and send them an e-mail to find out who you can obtain their debut: http://www.geocities.co.jp/MusicStar-Bass/6244/

Dimitris Starakis

Matthew Mills "NeoClassical Rock Guitar Part 2" review

2007-04-28T21:49:00.000+03:00

Matthew Mills - NeoClassical Rock Guitar Part 2 CD (Matt Mills Music)

When I hold in my hands a new Matthew Mills release, I feel like a child who’s got its favourite present! His brand new album is another fine example of how supersonic, flash - lightning and precise Neo-classical Metal should be executed! From the opening notes of “The Fury Of Speed” you can easily understand that the whole album is a feast of Virtuosity and high-demanding playing! Matthew is not only focusing on speed, but he also puts intense mid-tempo tracks, such as “Soul Cage” and “Dawn” which once again proves that now Neo-classical Metal player omits emotions from his playing! “Neoclassical At The Show” features also Matthew’s splendid acoustic guitar playing and the result once again is magical! It’s really hard to pick some certain tracks as favourites ones from the album you cannot do that with Matthew’s albums. Every track has a highlight and showcases the potential of this gifted guitarist! I only wish next time to find an appropriate drummer so that his tracks will include that pounding rhythm section they deserve! There are also some guests on the album such as Mike Orlando, who performs a guitar solo on the above mentioned "Soul Cage” and also Sean Baker, which contributes his skilful playing on "Castle Of Doom”. I used to believe and I still support my opinion that Matthew Mills hasn’t received yet the recognition he deserves. His abilities are beyond the mind of the average professional performer and the scene should soon realise that this “hidden ace” can offer a lot more. I wish also his CD with Forgotten Realm to be released soon because I have the feeling that we will blown away from the mix of Matthew’s furious guitar and David Fefolt’s ground-breaking vocals! I can’t wait. Check out Mill’s mySpace profile http://www.myspace.com/matthewmillsinstrumentalguitar and his web-site: http://www.mattmillsmusic.com/ for further info on how you can purchase his works, while I am going to listen to his new album again…and again…and again!!! Thank you Matthew!

Dimitris Starakis

Steve Shannon Interview

2007-04-28T20:51:00.004+03:00

WHEN THE SKY'S THE LIMIT, THEN STEVE SHOWS THE WAY!

One of my latest discoveries was the amazing guitarist Steven Shannon. It's strange when you think that Neoclassical Metal has reached its limits and then suddenly a young man appears and blows away all predictable thoughts that you may have about the scene! Steve's playing is much more emotional that the average guitarists of the genre and he's preparing to show the world his virtuosity by releasing his debut CD. He was kind enough to answer my questions so check the opinion of someone that will definitely leave you speechless with his wonderful playing!

What strong wave of enthusiasm forced you to pick up the guitar and at what age?
I started to play guitar early… at the age of 8. My Mother played guitar and sang which in turn got me interested in the instrument. My love for the instrument really ignited 6 years later when I first heard the song “Black Star” by Yngwie Malmsteen… this song had a profound effect on me in a way that can not be put into words. All I can say is that after that moment… guitar became an obsession.

Which are you all-time favorite Musicians?

This is a hard question because there are so many great players. I’m inspired by, Bach, Handel, Beethoven, Mozart, Vivaldi, Rachmaninoff, Uli Jon Roth, Ritchie Blackmore, Randy Rhoads, Michael Schenker, Yngwie Malmsteen, Tony Macalpine, Vinnie Moore, James Byrd, George Lynch and many more.

Why you chose "Neoclassical Fusion"as you claim your style to express yourself?

My style is based on what I like and want to do. I like to fuse the intensity & aggression of Rock with Classical… the marriage of both styles intrigues me. In my opinion, as far as melody and structure of arrangement, Classical music is more superior because it is more intense and emotional.

Your playing is much more emotional and intense than that of the average Neoclassical guitarist. For the songs that I’ve listened to, you insisted on really strong sentimental melodies and you prefer to neglect speedy, double-bass songs. Why?
Thank you for the kind words Dimitris. I want to create music that people will remember. My solos are like little compositions because they’re totally spontaneous & improvised. That’s the way I do it. I think that as a musician you have to play from your heart and not necessarily what music theory suggests. I’ve known of musicians who will learn music parts off another artists CD recording and then assemble them into their own song… which is entirely different from what I’m doing. I think very much the same way a classical composer would think. I use the bass to play the root, then a melody line and blend those together with a fifth and sometimes an octave above. I write melody lines then write the verse chord progression with relative chords. I plan on incorporating some double bass songs into future recordings.

When do you plan to release your first CD. Can you tell us details about title, label and its contents?

I’m currently unsigned and producing this myself which in turn slows down the process when you lack capital so if there are any labels reading this interview and you’d like to contact me please do so at

http://www.myspace.com/steveshannon

I’m putting together my debut cd at George Bellas music studios… my goal is to get the project finished this year. Since the cd will be all instrumental I wanted to name the project something that would reflect this so I came up with “Where Words Fail… Music Speaks” as the title. I’m also collaborating with some well known musicians and will have some guest players on the cd. At this time I do not want to disclose who they are but fans of Neo-Classical will definitely know them.

Do you plan also to feature some vocal songs in your future releases?

Yes, I would like to do a cd with vocals and that is my goal for the next cd.

In one of our previous contacts, you said that success is not your main goal, but you want to bring your music to an audience that will appreciate it, musically-wise. Is that true?

Yes and No. Obviously I’d like to be able to sustain my living costs and focus solely on just being a musician because music is my true bliss. Unfortunately, I’m still a victim of being a wage slave so I work a corporate job which requires a lot of my focus. I guess what I want everyone to know is that I’m not writing my music with dollar signs in my eyes… it is truly being written from my heart. Every fiber of who I am as an individual is in this project and I really would enjoy being able to share my passion with the world. Having the right vehicle to share my music on this level such as strong label support and advertising would help me to reach this goal.

George Bellas used flattering words for your work. What do you think of him?

Getting together with George is a great story. I was in a guitar players contest and he was one of the judges. We happened to talk during one of the intermissions and seemed to hit it off real well. The rest is history. I’ve been studying with him for 3 years now and I can not begin to tell you how grateful I am to have this relationship. George really inspires me and has helped me tremendously with left & right hand techniques. When I came to George I had little guitar training… most of what I’ve learned has been from self study and experience. To this day I’m still unable to read music. I play from the heart and what I hear. I’m currently learning how to read and also starting to learn more about harmony & tonal music techniques. Besides being a mentor… he is a great human being and I feel blessed to have him in my life.

There’s a brand new wave of Neoclassical Metal coming from the States with artists like Matthew Mills, Chad Sloan, of course you and many more. In a country that’s so hard to promote a demanding musical style like yours, how do you explain your enthusiasm?

I really don’t think about all the negatives that as an artist in this genre we’re up against nationally. I prefer to focus on the positive aspects… such as how popular Neoclassical still is in other countries. All I know is that I’m writing & playing the music that I truly love and it’s coming from my heart... wherever it goes and how far is a matter of the unknown.

Do you plan any concerts or guitar clinics?

I would love the opportunity to do concerts worldwide but for me, getting signed is my first priority. As far as guitar clinics, I’d like to pick up some endorsements and do those as well.

What will the future be for Neoclassical Metal?

I think that Neo Classical Metal will be here in the future as long as there are listeners that enjoy brilliant arrangements and melodies based upon virtuosity & spectacular musicianship. I think before it becomes main stream like rap music or pop we’ll need to see artists of this genre receive more support & airplay. Imagine if they had a progressive metal American idol show someday… this would help bring the publics attention to this style of music.

Add anything you may want

Thank you for this interview and helping to support my vision of reaching out to a lot of people who probably wouldn’t hear me because of limited exposure and lack of advertising. Thanks also to all of you who read my interview and support this style of music because without your interest… the genre would be perhaps over.
I look forward to sharing my music with everyone in the near future and achieving my goal of playing worldwide. In the meantime, please visit my music site @ http://www.myspace.com/steveshannon and let me know what you think.

Dimitris Starakis