MadCity Underground, Bitter Cold Debut and the Amazing Disappearing Vocalist

There was a decent turnout at the MadCity Underground show on Saturday. It's not quite what it should be, but at least people showed up.

I even found a few new bands that I like. Self Driven from Rockford, IL was up early in the night and definitely set the bar high. Vocalist Mike Stanfill has an amazing talent. At first, I wasn't convinced he had a good range, but a few songs in there was definitely more depth to his vocals. He had a great sound that reminded me of Gwar, Pantera and more all at the same time. I'll definitely make a point to see them again.

Autumn Reverie from Madison, WI also surprised me. They weren't overly heavy, but were definitely enjoyable. I wish they had been on the larger stage because their energy was unbeatable and I would have loved to see them with more room.

I really looked forward to seeing AutoChaotic, but had to leave due to unforeseeable circumstances. I'll definitely catch them the next time they play.

Last but not least, Bitter Cold had their debut show. It could have gone better. Not because the band isn't talened (because they are) and not because of a lack of chemistry (because I've never seen better), but because their singer didn't show. Bassist and backup vocalist Mike Ash stepped up to the plate and filled the flaky shoes of the MIA vocalist. He was a little shaky at first (understandably), but fell into it quickly and wrapped up their debut show on a high note. Speaking of... if there is anyone interested in singing with this amazing trio and you have a good scream and a "Killswitch sound" - let me know. I'll forward your information on to the guys. They have another show this Thursday at Club Tavern, so come check them out - with or without a vocalist.

And a special thank you to KNS Photography for getting some good pictures of this unforgettable debut show. 

Interview with Bitter Cold

I've talked about them, I've shared their page, I've offered to help manage them, I've done everything I can to pimp this band out and now I've interviewed them. Check out the interview with drummer Zakk, guitarist Chris and bassist Mike from the new metal band Bitter Cold. 

       

For the Love of Rock and Metal: Tell everyone a little about the band.

Zakk: For several years, Mike A, Chris and I played together in the Madison WI metal band Seven Signs. It was a good experience, but in late 2012, we realized we were ready for something different. We had always worked well together so it was really a no-brainer, at least for me, when we started talking about this new project. We were only missing one element – a great vocalist. We found that greatness (and more!) in Mike L – former vocalist for the band Livid! Our first jam session happened to occur during the coldest part of the winter. We bounced names around for a while and “Bitter Cold” stuck – a fitting name for a band from the icy reaches of Wisconsin – regardless of genre!

Chris: This band is the culmination of four productive minds coming together after struggling with various band dynamics over the years. All four of us have been playing music for a long time, and we feel that Bitter Cold is the sound that we have been trying to achieve all this time.

Mike: Bitter Cold is a band that got together just recently after all getting out of projects and having the same mindset of wanting to get back to fun music that pushes our own limits and hopefully pushes metal music farther in the process. We all knew each other from being in the Madison metal scene for some time and it all just kinda fell into place.

FLRM: Your Facebook page calls Bitter Cold “honest heavy metal.” What does this mean to you?

Z: Unique, real, relatable, fun and not overly produced music that stays true to us and our fans. 

C: Our brand of metal can't really be categorized. Certainly you can hear my influences in the guitar work and Zakk's in his drumming, but the focal point isn't on fitting into any specific genre, or even a specific area of the metal scene. It's honest metal because both musically and lyrically it speaks to universal truths. I'd like to think that my heavy blues influence has something to do with that as well, but you can decide that. It's honest because it is going to be what it is. We aren't going to dress up the music for anybody. We play because we love it and all have our own demons to expel. If other people feel that too, that is just awesome!

M: "Honest heavy metal" to me is doing it because you truly love the genre and want to be a part of it in any way possible. It means putting your heart into the music and helping share it as well as build a community around it.

FLRM: What is the hardest thing about being a new band?

Z: Finding a band name that hasn’t been used! As you know, new bands face many challenges – solidifying the line-up, putting together a good set list, obtaining quality recording, etc. We really lucked out – it just seemed natural right from the start. Our past experiences helped this project gel quickly and the music was flowing before we knew it.

C: The hardest thing about being a new band is differentiating from our past bands. Other than that, it is the usual band stuff... getting people to listen, getting people to shows, and helping people understand how cool this music is. It's always interesting because people often don't like what they aren't used to, but if you bludgeon them over the head with it, and it IS good, it will stick. We hope to bludgeon the fuck out of Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Illinois.

M: Honestly the hardest part of being in a new band for me is controlling the excitement of getting it all up and going. Writing and recording music while getting shirts and other merch made and setting up shows all at the same time! It gets to the point when you have to remember to take a step back and take a breath so you remember to actually bring instruments to the shows!

FLRM: What are you most excited about?

Z: The bottom line is that we have great chemistry! There’s truly nothing better than being on stage, sharing our music, interacting with fans and having the time of our lives. Our first single is almost ready for release and we can’t wait to unleash it on the masses. We have been given a great opportunity – and we will definitely not take it for granted.

C: I'm most excited to finally see some of my riffs that have been sitting on the shelf (due to other band turmoils) finally coming out and getting the full treatment with vox, drums, and bass. Most of the riffs in our tunes are bits and pieces of stuff that has been sitting in the back of my mind or on my 4-track for years.

M: I'm most excited to get back on stage with all the other great bands in the area and putting on some crazy shows! It sounds like a stereotypical response but there truly is no feeling like being up on that stage in front of people and knowing that your music is bringing everyone in that building together on some crazy levels!

FLRM: As someone who has been watching the local music scene for years, I’ve noticed a decline in the number of bands as well as the number of people showing up to shows. What do you think is going on?

Z: I’ve been asking myself the same question. The apparent decrease in the volume of local bands may be related to the economy. Sadly, music is not seen as a priority. Kids can no longer count on exposure to music in their schools due to ever increasing funding cuts. Difficult economic times have also led to unprecedented venue closures. Also, fewer and fewer radio stations nationwide offer opportunities for local bands. In Madison WI, we are so lucky to have WJJO, their Local Stage show, and the many things they do every day to promote local and regional artists!

C: It is hard work to make it on the local scene. People are busy, some are lazy, and like I said before, if people don't recognize your tunes, they often shy away from it. Beyond that, part of it is our current culture. Kids don't foam at the mouth for shows anymore... we've all become kind of complacent with watching YouTube videos and DVDs. It's kind of like trying to get tickets to a Packer game. A lot of people now say, "why would I freeze my ass off to see dots run around on the field when I could get a better seat, cheaper beer, and easy access to the toilet at home?" It's a disconnection from the experience of seeing it live, because it is so easy to access postpartum. That's why I try to always jump off the stage and slam into people. You shouldn't 'watch' a show... you can do that at home, you should 'participate' in a show. It's an experience.

M: There's so many factors that tie into it that its hard to address one specifically to attempt to turn it around. Bands in local scenes all over are dropping like flies because they want that instant gratification. Its completely understandable. We all do. But that's one of the hardest parts of being part of a band on this level. Financially you probably won't get back what you put in. People forget the reasons they started playing in the first place. They gotta keep it fun and leave egos and money problems out of the music side of it all. I've watched it happen countless times that money and egos just eat a band alive. As far as people making it out to shows I know a big part of that is the small amount of time people have nowadays. A lot of people work multiple jobs and most are on 2nd or 3rd shift just trying to get ahead. I'm sure there's tons more reasons but that's something we could talk about forever.

FLRM: What is the best way a fan can support a new local band?

Z: Gather your friends, go to shows, buy a CD or shirt if you can. Also, if you like a band, go spread the word!

C: Support can come a lot of ways. As annoying as it might sound, the best help comes from sharing. Sharing our music, sharing our videos, even passing Facebook links is a huge help. This is of course secondary to showing up at shows. If a fan of local music can do ANYTHING to help, it is showing up and banging their heads with us.

M: Honestly the best way a fan can support locals bands is obviously to get out to shows and have fun with us, but also just talking to us whether it be via social media out at the shows or wherever. The best part is getting to talk to them all and hear the feedback and hear the things they liked the most about the music and the show itself. Helps us write more music and put on better shows and helps network. Its all about building that community!

FLRM: If you could share the stage with any band (current or past), who would it be?

Z: It’s hard to select just one! In my opinion, Sevendust is undeservedly one of the more under-rated bands out there today. For the life of me, I can’t understand why they don’t have a bigger following considering the caliber of their performances. In addition, I am a huge fan of Morgan Rose. He is an awesome showman, not to mention a phenomenal drummer! But, after all, isn’t the drummer the heart and soul of every band! 

C: Pantera. No doubt in my mind.

M: Can I share it with Michael Jackson? A moonwalk guitar solo could be a great thing to see! Really thought I would love to share a stage with Pantera! The feeling of being a part of a show of that caliber would be indescribable.

FLRM: Anything else you want to share with people?

Z: Pancakes! “For the Love of Rock and Metal” has made a genuine impact on the metal scene, and it is an honor to have this opportunity to share a little bit about Bitter Cold. I would also like to take a moment to thank Paul Schluter and Megatone Studios for supporting Bitter Cold and helping us create a top notch product for our first release. Stay tuned!

C: Help us spread the Bitter Cold. Metal is a community based in this awesome music, help the community grow by doing any small thing surrounding the bands... like our page, share our posts, and if you do nothing else... show up and represent the family.

M: I just want to make sure everyone is watching for our new music that's going to be hitting here very soon! Check us out at our Facebook and drop us a message. We love talking to people and making new friends! You'll be seeing us on stages everywhere soon. Starting on the 22nd out at the RSR in Madison!

Welcome Back Silence Is Broken

About a year ago, Silence Is Broken (Rockford, IL) announced that they were no longer together. They decided to pursue other things, including another band called Driven Under, separately and let 7 years of SiB be enough. Last week, they posted a note on their Facebook saying that instead of continuing with Driven Under, they would be reuniting and making a second SiB album and will be playing shows again.

I am a huge fan of this band and I hated that they were no longer going to be playing, so of course I was thrilled to see this. I put off writing a "Local Bands We Miss" article, hoping for this news. To celebrate, check out this video of my favorite Silence Is Broken Song. I can't wait for their new album "Elevate" to be available and of course to see them live again. Much love to this great band that has put a lot of hard work, love, sweat, tears and blood into their music.

The full text of the Facebook announcement is available here.

Interview with Bruised But Not Broken's Vocalist Hudson Hower

I was approached by Standby Records with the opportunity to listen to a debut 5 song EP called Just(Defied). The band is Bruised But Not Broken from Charlotte, NC and they just signed with the label. Don't let the bands looks fool you. They may be young (like just getting out of high school kind of young), but they have a brutal sound. They are a metalcore band that incorporates some techno-like sounds into some of their song.

 I had the chance to do an interview with vocalist Hudson Hower via email. You can check them out on Facebook for a link to buy their EP. And I must say, the answer to the second question in this interview is by far my absolute favorite answer I've ever received from a band. Such amazing insight from someone so young. Kudos to you Hudson, not only for your talent, but for your appreciation of what music is really about.

For the Love of Rock and Metal: Tell me a little about yourself and the creation and background of Bruised but Not Broken

Hudson Hower: My name is Hudson, and I do vocals for the band. I guess a little bit of background… I suppose we got started how any other band gets started. I had some friends that were musicians and we all thought it would be fun to start playing some music. We all initially came from different backgrounds in music. For instance, our guitarist was primarily a classical player, while Matt (drums) was very jazz oriented. I was a huge country fan, and I guess once you add all of that together, you create an interest and mutual enjoyment of hardcore music! We started this band our 8^th grade year, so… 2009? Then it turned into a dream, and we’re still going at it.

FLRM: What is the hardest thing about trying to succeed in the music world, but metal in particular?
HH: I think a lot of people blow the idea that metal is “underground” or “neglected” out of proportion. In saying that, we’re limiting the vast potential of the genre itself, as well as its possibility for growth. I think that this genre has some of the most diverse and wonderful people you will ever find within it. To be honest, the hardest part of succeeding in the music world is probably defining the word success. Personally, if you define “success” with a dollar sign, I think you’re doing it wrong. While it’s possible to achieve that within the music industry, you’re limiting yourself if you overlook the hearts and minds of the people around you. Succeed in fellowship, not a bank account.

FLRM: How does it feel to be signed to Standby Records? 

HH: It’s a blessing and an honor. It’s funny, I feel like few people understand how much of a powerhouse Standby is and is going to become. It’s honestly a team game, and everyone over at Standby are some of the hardest workers you will ever meet, so being a part of such a diligent and driven group is super humbling. Both Neil (owner of Standby) and Shawn (manager) follow baseball religiously, so I guess that’s where their teamwork skills come from. It is really cool; they’re trying to make every band on the Standby roster a starting player with nobody stuck in the dugout. We’re very excited about what the future is going to look like.

FLRM: Who are your (either personally or as a band) biggest influences?
HH: Oh man, as a band and as individuals it goes everywhere, and changes consistently. I know that mutually we are all big fans of Underoath, My Epic and Ascend The Hill, but it’s able to range from Maroon 5 and Panic! At The Disco. I’m actually listening to Brian McKnight as I’m typing this, so I don’t know any straight answer to give you!

FLRM: If you could describe the band in one word, what would it be?
HH: Brothership.

FLRM: Why did you choose the mix of metal and techno?
HH: The techno thing went into effect a while ago. We haven’t dabbled much into it in the recent years, but have used our original interest in it to expand our ideas of what to combine musically, whether it be arpeggiaters or different synths or different guitar effects. We really just used it to see what else we could make happen.

FLRM: Some critics say “metalcore” isn’t real metal and shouldn’t be considered in the same league. What do you think?
HH: Haha man, I’m not that picky. If someone is saying that “real metal” is Guns N’ Roses, Black Sabbath, or Pantera, I don’t really take it that much to heart. If someone is adamant on bands of that sort being the only “metal” in existence, that’s totally okay with me. If metalcore is a separate genre, then I’ll say I’m in a metalcore band rather than a metal band. If someone is heavily advocating for “metal-equality,” I think that they should probably find a more important issue to be passionate about.

FLRM: What kind of musical training have each of the members had (self-taught, in school, privately, etc)?
HH: Matt’s father is a fantastic drummer and began teaching Matt when he was young, so he was a fantastic musician within no time. Other than that, we’re all for the most part self-taught. The interest in music theory and the desire to achieve mastery of our instruments has really been the forerunner for our knowledge in music. Not to brag or anything, but I do sing baritone in my high-school chorus class.

FLRM: If you could play any band or person – living or dead – who would it be?
HH: We’ve always set the dream bar of playing with The Devil Wears Prada. Either them or Justin Timberlake. Seriously, I dare you to tell me he isn’t awesome. (Matt just told me he would play for JT in a heartbeat. Just saying.)

FLRM: What are your main goals as a band?
HH: I guess our goal is to make music, be able to make this our source of living, meet everyone that we can and build relationships along the way. We’re so excited to finally start travelling and just meet people. I suppose our goal is to go until we can’t anymore. Well, scratch that – our goal is to go so that we never have to stop.

FLRM: Is there anything else you’d like to share?
HH: Lots I would like to share. That will all wait until another time, though. Can’t wait for the future. This is just The Beginning. 

Device Releases New Songs

You might remember my article about a new "Super-Band" being formed by Disturbed's David Draiman. He has an allstar lineup for recording and for touring. A few songs have been released and played on our local station 94.1 WJJO. The songs are good (as was expected), but some sound a lot like Disturbed, which I suppose is to be expected with frontman Draiman leading the pack. You can pre-order the CD on iTunes or in a CD bundle for $16.99 on this site.

Check out this video of "Close My Eyes Forever," which actually isn't all that reminiscent of Disturbed. It has a unique sound and features Lzzy Hale from Halestorm. I think the best part about this whole band is being able to hear some big names collaborate together to create a new, yet familiar, sound. It is not as heavy as Disturbed, but has some of the trademark growls and grunts from Draiman. 

What do you think of the new band and the new songs? Check out Device's official website where you can hear more songs, pre-order the CD, and learn more about the band. 

Upcoming Show: Lamb of God at The Orpheum

In case people haven't noticed, the concert scene in Madison has been a little sad the last few months. Sure, it's not festival season, but usually there are some decent shows throughout the winter. This winter has been a disappointment. Hopefully spring and summer will be better and this is an excellent start. I've got my tickets already - did you get yours? Come throw down with Randy Blythe and the boys in Lamb of God as well as Decapitated and Terror. Get your tickets now!

When: Friday June 7th
Time: Doors at 6:30pm, show starts at 7:45pm
Where: Orpheum Theater in Madison, WI
Cost: $25 in advance
What:

Robb Flynn Discusses Split with Bassist Adam Duce

You may or may not have heard that after 21 years in Machine Head, bassist Adam Duce has left the band. They call it an amicable split, but after reading Robb Flynn's journal entry about it, I'm not so sure. There seems to be a lot of hurt there and he calls it "civil," which in my mind is different than amicable. Flynn is now the only remaining original member of the band. It's the nature of the beast. Bands grow and then grow apart. Sometimes they split up, sometimes members leave, sometimes members are asked to leave. It seems like a glamorous job (and I'm sure sometimes it is) but it is a constant give and take, a lot of pressure, and has the need for everyone to be on the same page.

Here is the text from Flynn's journal on the Machine Head website:

Interview with The Everyday Losers

I did a review of The Everyday Losers' new EP last week and had a chance to ask Tyler and Dylan Seidel of the band a few questions. Check it out below and check out the original review here.

Photo from band's Facebook

For The Love of Rock and Metal: Tell me about how the band formed and a little about each member.

The Everyday Losers: Well Dylan and I are brothers so we have been playing music together for like seven years and been writing almost as long. Dylan and I went to school with Danny. I always knew he played guitar, but it didn't click with me to ask him to join as a bassist until we had been looking for one for a good while and he suggested it. It was a great transition for the band and he is a good fit.

FLRM: There is no drummer listed on your website or Facebook. Do you have a regular drummer or are you using touring/studio drummers?

TEL: We did use a studio drummer for half the tracks on the EP because at the time Dylan and I were the only members. I was still in high school when we got in contact with Phil Taylor. We headed down to new Orleans and tracked three songs in two days because we were on a low budget. About a year after that we found a drummer and got a few more songs recorded and this time John Lecompt was in on it from the beginning. We had that drummer a little over a year but we are currently still looking.

FLRM:  I’ve had some positive and negative reactions to your music and to a review I did. What do you want the people who have good things to say about you to know? How about those who had negative things to say?

TEL:  I don't think that the album does us justice. We had a hard time getting the earlier tracks on the record to be acceptable. We only had two sessions - a two day session and a five day session for the entire recording of the EP. We were still developing our sound in the middle of it. I look at it as our first EP because it has three tracks from the first as well as the three new ones. John is very precise in recording and mixing. He likes to remove all flaws in the music and some people may hear it and feel the personal quality removed. I think he is great at what he does, but for the next album we are planning on going for a more raw feel. We just did what we could with what was available to us and if you like it that's great. If you don't, that is okay too. We have more to offer than that EP.

FLRM:  Why alternative rock/grunge?

TEL:  We've been classified under that genre before. We aren't trying to imitate any of those bands in any way. We have always said nirvana and Silverchair are the greatest inspirations for our style, but we have developed a different style from them.  Dylan and I  both were attracted to the aggression of grunge. It felt real to us because it had passion.

FLRM:  What is your favorite thing about playing live?

TEL:  Being able to share music that my brother and I create.

FLRM:  What is the local scene like in your area? Have you noticed a change over the last few years (ie: the quality of bands, the number of people attending local shows, etc)?

TEL: We live in a small town. There is not really much of a music scene here. A few larger cities not too far from us have one and it's primarily death metal and power pop punk. It seems as though bands are falling away from the core of rock.

FLRM:  What is your songwriting process? Is it just one person or is it collaborative?

TEL:  Dylan and I write the songs. Dylan writes most of the music and I do most lyrics. We both write the melodies.

FLRM:  If you could sing for any band (current or past) other than your own, which one would it be and why?

TEL: (Dylan) I think Seether would be cool. I've always felt a connection with Shaun's lyrics.

FLRM:  What do you think it takes to put on a really good show?

TEL: We are a tight band live. We feed off the crowd, as well as each other. I do everything I can to be as entertaining as possible. I don't think I have played a show where I didn't end up on the ground or running as fast as I can on the stage. Crowd interaction is key as well. We always try our best to get the crowd into the music.

FLRM:  If you weren’t a musician, what would your number one profession choice be?

TEL: I'm a graphic designer as well, so I'll go with that.

FLRM:  Is there anything else you’d like to add?

TEL:  Hopefully our future recordings will show a sense of passion through the music. We are passionate and would like people to feel connected to the songs.

New Music: The Everyday Losers EP "Social Paradise"

Photo from Band's Reverbnation

I got an email about a band called The Everyday Losers and decided to review their second EP called "Social Paradise." I have been sitting here trying to decide how I feel about this band. Here's the thing... I don't dislike them. They are reminiscent of the grunge era and resemble bands like Nirvana, Fuel and Bush. I like those bands and I really enjoy grunge and alternative rock. But this is where my dilemma comes in - they are a throwback band to a time when these grunge bands were just breaking through. Some stood out, some faded into the background never to be seen again. I like The Everyday Losers because they sound like these bands, but at the same time, they do sound like every other band.

The EP starts with the song Hate You. This song sounds like early Puddle of Mudd from the instrumentals all the way to the vocals. It is followed by Queen of the World and Pins, which are the same melodic sound. My favorite of the EP is Here We Are Now, which reminds of Bush and Nirvana rolled into one. The CD is rounded out with Farrah 22 and Let Me Die. If I had to sum up this EP in one word, it would be "accessible."  It is prime for radio play because it is not at either end of any extreme and it echos already well-known music. Some may call it a boring sound, but I think it is the kind of music that anyone can listen to easily. That's good because it can draw a larger fan base, but bad because people like me listen to music for the passion. I like metal because it is pure and raw emotion, but I also like grunge and alternative because it is easy to listen to and The Everyday Losers fit right into that mold. I'm not saying the guys from this band aren't passionate. I'm sure they are, but I'm having a hard time pulling that passion from this EP. Alternative rock often does not exude great amounts of passion and that's okay. 

The Everyday Losers is a band from Washington, Indiana and is made up of two brothers, Dylan and Tyler Seidel and Danny Norton. There is no drummer listed on their Facebook or website. They have played at Rockapalooza and have had radio play in their home state of Indiana as well as on Milwaukee, Wisconsin radio station. Check back soon for an interview with the band. 

New "Super-Band" Lineup Announced

Photo from Buzznet

As many of you may know, David Draiman has put together a new industrial band called Device. If you do the whole Twitter thing, you can follow them here. We've been waiting to find out who is going to be on the album and who might be making an appearance in any live shows, but the wait is finally over.

On Device's debut album, there will be an all-star lineup. Bassist Geezer Butler (Black Sabbath), singer and bassist Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple) and frontman M. Shadows (Avenged Sevenfold) will all be heard on the new album. Singer Serj Tankian (System of a Down), guitarist Tom Morello (Rage Against the Machine) and Lzzy Hale (Halestorm) will all also be appearing. As you can see, this creates quite the "super-band." Many people know how I feel about super-bands, but in case you didn't know - I don't usually enjoy them. Sometimes it turns out great, sometimes the mixture of styles (and egos) can be problematic. None of them are a permanent member of the band, so maybe this will work out.

As far as live shows go, the drummer from Evanescence and Dark New Day, Will Hunt, will be involved as well as the Dope and Eve to Adam guitarist Virus, who happens to be one of my favorite guitarists. Geno Lenardo, former guitarist for Filter, is also in the live lineup and is the only other permanent member.

Photo from Guitar Quest

The first single, "Villify," is expected to hit the radio on February 19th and a music video for the song was recorded yesterday. The full album should be released April 9th, 2013.

So, what do you think? Are you surprised by the lineup and special appearances? And what do you think of super-bands made up of established musicians from a variety of bands?

Find more info on Loudwire and Bloody Disturbing.

Nonpoint Releases "I Said It" Video filmed in Madison, WI

https://www.facebook.com/nonpointworld

Awhile back, I announced that Nonpoint was looking for people to be in their music video for newly released "I Said It."  There have been questions about when it was to be released, since it was filmed months ago and we basically all wanted to see ourselves in a music video. Well, the time has come. The video has been released. Check it out below or on www.vevo.com.

Nonpoint is also currently on tour. You can get up-to-date information on their Facebook page or check out the tour schedule below.

https://www.facebook.com/nonpointworld

Coming Up... Metal Merry XXXMAS

What's going on this weekend? Have plans? Me too, but I managed to squeeze this in to my busy schedule. Saturday, December 22, 2012 at the Regent Street Retreat (RSR Stage/Formerly known as The Annex - you know the place) 301 and Savage Productions with ETM Records presents Merry Metal XXXMAS. 

This show features one of my favorite bands ever and the band that really got me into the local metal scene - Malice in Wonderland. You may remember them from this article and this article. In addition, Stux, Black Hole Conspiracy, Descending the Heavens, Murdercore and Chemical Strike will be playing.


 Check out the bands at the links below and I hope to see you there. $5 at the door, 9:00 pm. Come get your metal on! \m/


MALICE IN WONDERLAND
STUX
BLACK HOLE CONSPIRACY
DESCENDING THE HEAVENS
MURDERCORE
CHEMICAL STRIKE

Loudwire List: Top 50 Metal Songs

Check out Loudwire's Top 50 Metal Songs of the 21st Century here. I've highlighted some of the songs below with accompanying videos. And for the record, I think Number 20 (Lamb of God - Redneck) should have been ranked better. It is by far one of my favorite songs ever.

NUMBER 47 - TRIVIUM - PULL HARDER ON THE STRINGS OF YOUR MARTYR



NUMBER 26 - NECROPHAGIST - STABWOUND



NUMBER 20 - LAMB OF GOD - REDNECK

Volbeat Drummer

So, you may all know that I have a connection with the world's sexiest drummer/drummist (not Jon Larsen)... check out the blog written by Kurt Stapleton that is all about drums. Here is one of his posts about Jon Larsen, the Volbeat drummer. There are also drum tips, reviews, and lots of other things on there. Enjoy.

http://sadmanstongue.com/

Jon Larsen, Volbeat drummer

Volbeat's latest album "Beyond hell/Above heaven" is one of the best I've heard this year. It debuted on Nov. 25 2011, and the band has been touring nonstop ever since to support it. It's a great hard rock album with a twist of metal. Drummer Jon Larsen put's his stamp on this album with some really nice double bass work on every song. It's not overdone or over the top, but rather, with a tasteful, almost playful approach. The sound is so fat, and punchy, and the cymbals really sound great in the mix. I love the bass drum work, I can't seem to stop tapping my fingers when I listen to the c.d. 

The track "Fallen", which was their first single, really launched the album and their music career to new heights. "Heaven nor Hell" is a great rock track with nice harmonica work in it. Solid, with a nice time change, this track should be a single that could match the popularity of "Fallen".

"Who they are" has this cool Metallica/Slayer feel to it, that seems to be an influence in  their writing.

"A better believer"  has a really cool time change that keeps the listener intrigued by it's push/pull feel.

The song "7 Shots (featuring Mille Petrozza)" has a "Ghost riders" sound to it that stands out in the crowd on this disc.

If you like a great, solid, straight-up hard rock c.d. with double bass and catchy melodies, put this in your Ipod and give it a shot. You shouldn't be disappointed.

See original link here.

Metallica Unveils New Record Label

Photo from RollingStone.com

We all knew it was coming. Metallica is one of the biggest names in the music world and they have launched their new record label. It's been chattered about recently, but we weren't sure what they were going to call it. Honestly, there were so many available options for names. They recently unveiled the label and its name, Blackened Recordings.

One of the more amazing things about this is that in 1994, they negotiated an almost unheard of contract provision with Warner Bros that means that they have complete control over and ownership of  their master recordings. Their 28 year relationship with Warner Bros has ended with the creation of their new label and they now have control over their already-produced music and videos as well as control over all future music. It means an entirely new sense of independence that comes from producing your own music without an outside company exerting power over it. Good for you Metallica. I hope you can do much better than St. Anger, which was a disappointment to all.

The Return of the Prodigal Band

In case no one in the area has been paying attention... Malice in Wonderland played their first show in over 2 years last night. Apparently Santa got my letter this year and delivered my present early in the form of Dave O, Chris and the rest of this great band.

MIW is the first local band I ever enjoyed enough to go to every show (which is a nice way of saying "stalked") and they set me on the path I'm on now. They gave me a new appreciation for metal, the local scene and a better understanding of how it all works. If it weren't for then, I might never have started seeking out more local bands and local music, which led to this blog. So, if you don't like this blog - feel free to blame them. Their unique sound, 2 vocalists and heavy instrumentals are unforgettable. Here is the article I wrote about them when I first started this blog, which may have been the letter that Santa got and decided I was good enough this year to have this band back.

They played a half hour set as the last band of Mad City Underground, a 2 stage event at the Regent Street Retreat. I've been waiting for this and was not disappointed. It was just like I remember and definitely brought back some great memories. Here are a few pictures and one video. Check back in a day or two for another video being featured.

Seven Signs Videos and Photos

Are you tired of hearing about Seven Signs yet? I know that everyone around me is. Well, here are some videos and photos from the show last night at The Wisco in Madison, WI. There were other bands, but I do not plan to do a review for this show so this is all you get.

Click Read More to see the rest of the photos and videos

Black With Envy

I'm not sure if this band is still out and about (I can't find any current shows or news), but I thought you guys might enjoy some of this music. Definitely check out Black With Envy on Reverbnation. I couldn't find a video (so this isn't technically a Featured Video), but enjoy some of the music provided here. And if anyone can tell me who the vocalist sounds like (especially in the track Black With Envy), you'll get a special prize because I can't put my finger on it.

New Nonpoint Album and Tour Dates

Nonpoint Releases Self-Titled Album

Photo from Nonpoint's Facebook Page

Remember a few months ago when Nonpoint came to Madison to film a new music video? Well, I do - I was there! The video was for "I Said It" which is on their new self-titled album that went on sale one Tuesday, October 9th. I'll admit, I've been too busy to get it (since I like to have a physical copy it's not as easy as buying a digital copy online), but I will soon and will review it. Until then, I've been listening to it via the links the band has been posting on their Facebook page. So far, the album has had an amazing response from critics and fans. Also, a bunch of tour dates have been posted - so check it out below. I've also included a sneak-peak of the song "I Said It."

Tour Dates: 

With Taproot and Black Oxygen

10/16 Corpus Christi, TX Brewsters St Ice House

10/17 Houston TX Scout Bar

10/18 Broussard/Lafayette, La The Station

10/19 Mobile, Al Soul Kitchen

10/20 Columbus, GA Chaos On The Rocks

10/22 Pensacola, Fl Vinyl Music Hall

10/23 Knoxville, TN The Valarium

With Taproot and Surrender The Fall

10/24 Memphis, Tn Newbies

Headlining

10/25 Sauget, Il/St Louis, Mo Pops

11/15 Appleton, WI Luna Lounge

With POD

11/16 Minneapolis, MN First Ave

Headlining

11/17 Wausau, WI Fillmor

11/20 Fayeteville, Ar Georges Majestic Loungue

11/21 Little Rock, Ar Rev Room

With Sevendust

11/23 Jacksonville, Fl Club Rain

11/24 Tampa, Fl Tampa Cuban Club

11/25 Orlando, Fl House OF Blues

Headlining

11/28 Rockford, IL The District

11/30 Battle Creek, Mi Planet Live Music

12/1 Libertyville, Il Austins Fuel Room

Interview with Phobia vocalist Shane "The Pain"

Shane "The Pain" MacLachlan Interview

By Nicki Stapleton
Originally published on The Blacktooth

After 22 years on the Grindcore scene, Phobia is still pushing forward. With a new album released and a tour on the horizon, they are as ruthless as ever. Front man and founding member Shane “The Pain” MacLachlan took time to speak to me about the album, the industry, and life in the band.

Nicki Stapleton: Tell me about the new album Remnants of Filth. What do you think sets it apart from Phobia’s other albums?

Shane MacLachlan: Everyone is going to have their favorites, just like I have my favorites. With this record, the lineup I’m working with is great. The music is faster and has more brutality than other records.  22 Random Acts of Violence was calmer and the lyrical content, passion and integrity is different than what we’ve done before.

NS: After  being around for more than 20 years, how do you keep the music fresh and different?

SM: When I write, I love what I’m doing. You need to have the passion to want it and its in my blood. I am the same person I was when I started. Well, I have grown I would hope because I’m not 19 year old anymore. The fan base will be picky, but you just have to keep going and enjoy the new stuff. I mean, we aren’t going to fix what isn’t broken and we’re just going to keep doing what we love.

NS:  I have seen Phobia described under many different genres and subgenres – punk, metal, grindcore, etc. What do YOU consider Phobia to be and why?

SM: We are a punk band, punk rock. Grindcore is often thrown around as slang being used loosely. Punk rock is more of a movement and grindcore was often played by punk rockers who wanted to make something more obnoxious.

NS: What do you hope for people to take away from your music?

SM: I want them to know that you can do what you want to do and to learn something. And if someone reads the lyrics and takes away from that, it’s great. I’m a lyricist so, I believe the lyrics are the most important part.  I believe in being open-minded and realizing everyone thinks differently, whether it’s politically or personally or whatever. Music is emotions. I guess I want people to feel that and I want to make people happy.

NS:  I’m sure you get asked about this a lot, but Phobia has a big turnover of members. How is it working out with the current lineup and do you expect it to stay this way for awhile?

SM: It is the best I’ve ever had. It’s a great mix of talent. Brian has been with me for almost 10 years, doing more touring and not as much recording stuff. It’s just a different vibe, not as much business with more fun. It’s more of a friendship, more family. Some people who are no longer with us are still involved in the band. Any band that has been around for so long will have a large turnover and it is often just the singer with a different lineup. They are really just “hired guns” in some bands, but not with us.

NS: Is there anything you do to get ready for a show? Any rituals or superstitions?

SM: Well, there’s not really anything specific. We just try to to drink so much, but I do like a few shots of whiskey. A couple of Jim Beam on the rocks. Some of us have a few beers. Cece is very disciplined and we try to just be professional. We know we’ll fuck up if we aren’t good. There have been disasters in the past, especially while touring.

NS: I know your lyrics and many other bands’ lyrics often focus on social and political issues and commentary. What would you say to people who believe heavy bands are just about violence and anger?

SM: Its kind of ignorant. I mean, no one knows what is going on in someone else’s mind. Everyone expresses their views and emotions in different ways. Anger is an emotion too, but in a song it may represent something else, something deeper. Music is emotion. Music is entertainment. All songs represent emotions and sometimes if I just want to relax I might put on Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon. It’s all in how it makes you feel.

NS: If Phobia could tour with any band (current or past), who would it be and why?

SM: This is a hard one. It probably wouldn’t necessarily be a grindcore band or a death metal band. It might be someone like Willie Nelson. I’m a big fan and he’s brilliant and a great lyricist. I’ve seen him many times before. I don’t know if that would work out very well though. It may even be someone like Discharge. They are a huge influence. Or The Exploited.

NS: What do you do in your spare time.

SM: Well, I like to make t-shirts, like for other bands. I enjoy writing and playing music outside of the band. I do it all the time. I guess music is a hobby of mine. Calum likes to garden, Cece is a vegan cook and about to open her own business and Brian does a lot of construction things. We all just try to keep busy. I also like reading and I love to cook.

NS: With current events surrounding an incident with a member of another band, how do you feel about fans jumping on stage.

SM: It’s no problem for me if fans jump on stage. If they just want to sing or whatever, its fine. But, there is a limit to everything and limits can be surpassed. I mean, they don’t know if I’m drunk or something and sometimes they start throwing fists. The stage people just need to be on top of it and use their discretion.

NS: Anything you’d like to add?

SM: Check out the new record. It has cool artwork and cool music. We are expecting to start touring around October. The tour dates should be announced soon.

NS: Where can we expect the tour? U.S., North America, World?

SM: Right now we’ll be touring the Midwest. I love touring in the Midwest, it’s a lot of fun there.

Check out Phobia on Facebook and their new punishing grindcore album that is their heaviest yet. 

Originally posted on The Blacktooth