OGEN Black Metal Unbound Kolony Records Official Website

I don't think I need to tell you the musical direction this band has chosen to follow... I mean just by reading this album's title everything becomes apparent and crystal clear! Now all we need to do is try to explain more thoroughly the main direction in this genre that OGEN belong to. Following the traditional black metal path, OGEN from Italy is a one man band with Hartagga being behind everything but the drums. This element alone gives you a clue as to the exact nature of his black metal which is close to the primitive old school Norwegian black metal sound with frozen and gloomy atmospheres. However, there's not just one side to "Black Metal Unbound", but it's actually enriched with nice dark melodies, some symphonic black metal parts and a blackened aura surrounding the compositions. The tempos are mainly fast with plenty of blast beats without, though, some more mid tempo moments missing. To wrap it all up, this is a release for those who are into the more pure and old fashioned black metal approach. 

Christine  Parastatidou

ALCHERA Era Bret Hard / Twilight Records Official Website

I've just discovered a real treasure in the extreme metal scene and I'm going to keep it to make sure my mind is blown away on a daily basis from now on! ALCHERA is a name all the death metal maniacs should be acquainted with, because they are a simply stunning band full of power and might that will sweep you off and mercilessly hammer you with its pounding sharp riffs and concrete rhythm section. How can it be that such a talented band formed in 1997 has only released a debut in 2003 and only now, approximately eight years later, they manage to release their sophomore work? It beats me, but we Greeks say better late than never and it's totally right, since "Era" is a keeper for me! The death metal craftsmanship displayed here is simply beyond words and description... it's sharp, raw, brutal and yet it never lacks in melodies or intricate guitar solos and parts. Another thing that makes "Era" such an irresistible work is its diversity and how beautifully it incorporates different elements and sounds. Although the foundation of ALCHERA's music is death metal, both its brutal and melodic branch, it also has a great deal of black metal tinges, a frozen epic atmosphere and even plenty of classic heavy metal riffs and passages. The brutal and more high pitched twin vocals along with the three guitars and the pounding rhythm section enhance the extremity and ferocity of the compositions that are also accentuated by the very good production. All in all, this is an album you can't afford to lose! 

Christine  Parastatidou

ELVENPATH Elvenpath Independent Official Website

This is the third release of the melodic heavy/power metal band from Germany. However, on this one they use as a title the band’s name. To me this means that the band considers this album as the best they have released so far and also signals a fresh beginning for them. Anyway, I might be wrong, but the sure thing is that this one is a hell of a good heavy metal album! Having influences from giants like IRON MAIDEN, MANOWAR and HELLOWEEN, the band build their own personal sound which brought to my mind some other great 80’s bands from Germany that didn’t manage to become so well known. To be more specific ELVENPATH are influenced from the above mentioned bands, but their sound is closer to groups like ATTACK, STORMWITCH and even HEAVENS GATE. All these, I believe, arouse your interest and believe me, I don’t exaggerate a bit. ELVENPATH deliver melodic metal with such freshness and passion that even the most “tough” of us won’t resist to bang their head with the songs included here. Besides the great riffs and melodies and the skillful playing of the musicians, a great job was done with the vocals. Dragutin Kremenovic is the perfect singer for the music of ELVENPATH. So, if you want to listen to a good European metal release that is not so similar with the tons released every month, then this album is a must have. Personally, I vote it as the best release of this month!

Nick  "Verkaim"  Parastatidis

TORCHBEARER Death Meditations Vic Records Official Website

The Swedes TORCHBEARER make a strong comeback with their third full length album, "Death Meditations", almost six years after the release of their sophomore work, "Warnaments" and I guess this period in between has worked in favour of the band since they've managed to release a stunning album. Music-wise the band balances and walks between two genres, death and black metal, but they have the know how to create catchy songs that stick to your mind, songs that contain the best of both music genres. "Death Meditations" contains the harshness and roughness of death metal with the classic enchanting melodies of melodic death metal, the coldness and extremity of black metal and the imposing dark keyboards of atmospheric majestic black metal. Add to the aforementioned elements the fact that the band consists of some amazing and very talented musicians which is subsequently translated into crafty songs with elaborate riffs and intricate solos that enhance both the beauty and the sharpness of this release and even adorn it with a progressive hue and this is pretty much how we end up with "Death Meditations". The production is worthy of the compositions and the lyrics are a concept story based on thoughts and the philosophy behind the book "Hagakure", the way of the samurai. A very interesting and impressive work that I urge all the fans of extreme metal to check out!

Christine  Parastatidou

TWISTED TOWER DIRE Make it Dark Cruz Del Sur Music Official Website

I believe that Cruz Del Sur Music is one of the best metal record labels nowadays. One of the groups that the label managed to sign is the mighty TWISTED TOWER DIRE who are an American band now delivering their fifth album. They play power metal with some epic touches, but I really believe that they have a unique sound. Especially their first two albums (“The Curse of Twisted Tower” and “The Isle of Hydra”) are really great!! Their new album has also their unique sound but I would characterize it more straightforward in comparison to their previous works. It is also their first album with their new singer. Tony Taylor, their ex singer who sang in their previous four works is unfortunately dead now.  I really enjoyed their new album, though. My favourite tracks are the last three songs of the album "The Stone", "The Only Way",and "Slow Leopard" while the opening track "White Shadow" is also a good track!! In conclusion this is going to be one of the best classic metal releases for 2011. The friends of good power metal should invest!!
P.S. : I consider myself lucky because I managed to see them live at Up The Hammers festival in 2007. I would definetely love to see them again!!

Ioannis  "Knight of the Light"  Kaskamanidis

KAOS KREW Global Fobia Toprecords Records Official Website

I don't have much intel regarding this band and in fact all I found on a quick search I did on the Internet is that KAOS KREW are listed as an industrial metal band, which is correct for the most part. Their music has the sharpness, edge and electronic approach that characterizes most industrial metal releases, however, these guys have managed to mold it according to their influences and mix it with other metal styles and genres. The first three songs of "Global Fobia" are almost pure industrial metal, but from the fourth track on KAOS KREW show us a different side and aspect to their music. First of all, their compositions are for the most part instrumental, since the vocals are really scarce and even non existent in some songs. Secondly the guys behind this band are true craftsmen delivering some really intricate themes and elaborate guitar solos that are perfectly supported by a stable rhythm section and some space oriented keyboard parts and this is how the second part of the album turns out to be... It's mainly focused on the guitar and keyboard work and there were times that the music created by KAOS KREW is influenced and resembles that of Joe Satriani and I'm referring to the overall approach and aesthetics of their songs and not so much to the compositions themselves. So, "Global Fobia" may first give the impression of a modern industrial metal release, but if you let it roll, you'll see that it also has a different character altogether...

Christine  Parastatidou

VOLTURE Shocking Its Prey EP Heavy Artillery Records Official Website

And here is band that I call inspired. On this EP this U.S. metal band makes a display of talent, inspiration and passion. These guys seem to know that N.W.O.B.H.M. doesn’t start and end with IRON MAIDEN. Their influences come from many different traditional metal styles, including N.W.O.B.H.M. bands, but the guys give their personal touch to their sound. They don’t simply show off how they can copy the sound of the 80’s. They are 80’s influenced, but their sound at the same time is contemporary. Musically now I have noticed influences from bands such as ANGEL WITCH, JUDAS PRIEST, MERCYFUL FATE and you might even say early METALLICA (their “Kill ‘em All” era) and of course DIAMOND HEAD. The production is very good and you can listen to all the instruments and also a great job has been done on the leads and the solos that enrich each song. One other thing that I appreciate in a traditional metal band is its singer and specifically how expressive he can be and how his voice helps the song to become even more beautiful. Brent Hubbard succeeds in that, because his voice sounds as a combination between Rob Halford (just listen to “Heavy Metal Machine”) and King Diamond. I don’t know about you, but that’s the kind of metal that I love to listen to… Check them out.

Nick  "Verkaim"  Parastatidis

SIGN OF THE JACKAL The Beyond EP Heavy Artillery Records Official Website

It is obvious that there is a new trend of new bands rising and trying to play the kind of heavy metal music that was popular in the 80’s. Italy could not be an exception to that. SIGN OF THE JACKAL is a female fronted band that, you guessed right, is influenced by the N.W.O.B.H.M. musical movement. I think that because of the singer they also brought to my mind WARLOCK of the first two albums. So, things are pretty much obvious, if you enjoy this movement then you'll probably like these guys too. They are skillful musicians and they deliver their songs properly and also they have the necessary passion that makes the whole result convincing for their sincerity. They do have to work a bit more on the variety factor, but if I want to be just then I have to admit that I listened to their release quite pleasantly, without though ever feeling enthusiastic. They are good at what they do and I am pretty sure that people who like this kind of sound, will like them too. Anyhow, it is a positive start for a new band. A start that keeps you interested to listen to their next works and see how they will evolve as musicians and composers…

Nick  "Verkaim"  Parastatidis

EVIL SURVIVES Metal Vengeance Heavy Artillery Records Official Website

If you play like the first two albums of IRON MAIDEN or at least you try to imitate their sound, then they put you under the tag of N.W.O.B.H.M. influenced band and a big part of the underground press writes praising words for you. I will say one thing… BIG DEAL. If you like IRON MAIDEN (my respects) form a tribute band, but when you form a band and you want to compose your own songs, then please try to give a personal touch to your sound. Besides that, don’t say that you are an N.W.O.B.H.M. influenced band, because from what I listen to here the only thing you know are the two albums of IRON MAIDEN. EVIL SURVIVES is another boring clone like ENFORCER who might play well on stage, but their music is too common and typical that bored me to death. Also the singer, as ENFORCER's too, sings only in one way and believe me he doesn’t have the balls that the voice of Paul Di'Anno has. I am big fan of heavy metal music and especially the 80’s one, but I prefer bands like WOLF or 3 INCHES OF BLOOD that take their influences and mold them in order to create something that bares their personality. Buy only if you like so much bands like ENFORCER. I will pass and listen once again to IRON MAIDEN and the above mentioned original bands…

Nick  "Verkaim"  Parastatidis

CRUACHAN Blood on the Black Robe Candlelight Records Official Website

There are so many pagan and Viking metal bands out there... So many guys and girls  dress like Vikings, Celts, ancient Greeks and Romans... All these are nice to watch, but most of the time their music can’t support their image. Either it will be too happy or too typical and boring. Melodies that make you think that the one band borrows from another one to the point that they all sound too similar. CRUACHAN, with their new album, come to show who the real deal is and these guys sure are. First of all CRUACHAN's music is based on the metal instruments and they use the folk melodies and instruments in order to blend them into their music and enrich it. The other positive thing is that they manage to combine traditional metal with black metal and folk melodies to a point that they create a release that sounds epic and is full of war like anthems. Also in comparison to other bands of the folk metal style, CRUACHAN have variety in their sound. Finally, in my opinion, these guys are the only band that reached somehow the greatness of the good old SKYCLAD. So, the conclusion is beyond any doubt my friends, that if you want to listen to some good epic folk metal, then this release is your number one choice (along with SUIDAKRA’s latest album). 

Nick  "Verkaim"  Parastatidis

BONFIRE Branded LZ Records / Sony Music Official Website

BONFIRE was always one of my favourite bands. I also strongly believe that they are underestimated as a band in the world of hard rock. Some of their albums are true gems in this music and the guys should have played in big arenas back in the 80s. The past decade they returned with a bunch of really good albums and they show the music world that they are in great form (just check them live…). Here we have their new album called “Branded”. I have to say that the first three songs hit me straight through the heart!!! Classic BONFIRE with big hooks strong guitars and Claus Lessmann at his best! “Deadly Contradiction”, “Just Follow The Rainbow” and “Save Me” are songs that could star in any BONFIRE album. The fast Teutonic rocker “Do or Die”, the nice ballad “Hold Me Now” and “Close to the Edge” are all superb songs which can keep the BONFIRE legacy for many years. It’s a very good album a little bit better than the previous one, “The Rauber”. All the fans of German hard rock should go and buy a copy.

Chris  Kappas

VALSANS Sword Pure Underground Records Official Website

Sometimes a bio sheet can create a bad impression. The bio sheet of VALSANS says that they can be the cure for those who don’t like the late MANOWAR albums and the split of RUNNING WILD. By reading this, I put the CD on the player knowing that all these are just for impression. I am 10 years in this zine and I don’t think that any bio sheet can fool me. VALSANS from Austria is the typical true power metal band, which means that they reminded me of a lot of bands like WIZARD, GRAVE DIGGER and a bit of MANOWAR and METALLICA to some points. They also have a very good singer and some good ideas, but apart from them “Sword” is a very typical release for this genre. All the ideas that are included here are played in a more innovative way by the aforementioned bands. I am saying this, because I am a fan of this kind of music and I have to admit that this release was pleasant while I was listening to it, but I didn’t listen to something that will make me want to listen to it again. The good thing is that they are a tight and talented band, but they really do have to work more in order to create a personal sound or at least give us interesting compositions that won’t remind us so much of their influences. Try to listen to them, before visiting the record store near you…

Nick  "Verkaim"  Parastatidis

WARFARE The New Age of Total Warfare Southworld Records Official Website

This is a compilation of this known N.W.O.B.H.M. band. The band released five full length albums and an EP during the '80s (well their last album was released in 1990!!). Their sound though isn't the typical N.W.O.B.H.M. one. WARFARE has a more in your face approach with songs that are fast and furious. Their style is closer to bands like MOTORHEAD, TANK, ATOMKRAFT, VENOM (without being so dark though), e.t.c. rather than the typical N.W.O.B.H.M. stuff. Lemmy made the production for their "Metal Anarchy" album, Algy Ward (TANK) made the sound for their "Pure Filth" album and Cronos (VENOM) did the same for “Mayhem Fucking Mayhem". So here we have a band which doesn't hide its influences!! So their songs are fast, they have rough vocals, a raw sound and they are short in duration.  The band is good in what they do!! The present collection is quite big containing 16 tracks and the tracks that I liked more are the homonym track of the compilation and "Metal Anarchy". In conclusion this is an interesting compilation for the ones that haven't listened to anything from the band!!

Ioannis  "Knight of the Light"  Kaskamanidis

CIRCLE OF SILENCE The Blackened Halo Massacre Records Official Website

If you can’t be original, at least you have to be passionate and armed with good ideas. This is the third release of the power metal band from Germany called CIRCLE OF SILENCE. The guys for sure are not original at all. Something that doesn’t bother me at all, if the band has inspiration and these guys have all I need in order to enjoy their album. Their sound, I think, is more U.S. metal oriented... in the way that BRAINSTORM sounds too. Having as their basis the 80’s monsters like IRON MAIDEN, JUDAS PRIEST and SAVATAGE, their sound also carries influences from more contemporary bands like CAGE, ICED EARTH and BRAINSTORM (as I have mentioned above). Their singer, Nick Keim, sounds like another pissed off Jon Oliva and gives an extra boost to the passionate playing of the band. It is hard for me to imagine that CIRCLE OF SILENCE, with their new album “Blackened Halo”, will disappoint any fan that wants to listen to some good power metal. Actually, this album made me curious about how their previous two releases sound. I will try to find them and check them out too. Till then, this one will keep me a good company.

Nick  "Verkaim"  Parastatidis

BLACK N’ BLUE Hell Yeah! Frontiers Records Official Website

Who would have thought that after more than a decade of a hard rock decadence (the '90s), many of the melodic rock/hair metal bands would return! Most of the '80s bands come back with style! In 2011 we have the come back album of BLACK N' BLUE! Thanks to Frontiers Records we have BLACK N' BLUE album No5! The original members are all here (Jaime St. James, Jeff Warner, Patrick Young and Pete Holmes) except Tommy Thayer who is touring with KISS.  The album explodes with the kick ass rocker “Monkey” and the hard n’ heavy heaven “Target” which are two of the greatest songs on the album. Next comes the mid tempo “Hail Hail” with the arena chorus and we understand that the boys are back! There is also some great stuff like the fast rocker “C'mon” or the melodic “So Long” and of course the bad ass “Hell Yeah!” which I believe is one of the best songs on the CD. It’s a great come back from a band that had their last studio album in 1988! Therefore, grab a CD and let the party begin.

Chris  Kappas

SPLIT HEAVEN Street Law Pure Steel Records Official Website

The Latin part of America has given us through the years some very good releases and still does. The only bad thing for a major part of metal heads is that most of these bands use their mother tongue in their lyrics. One other thing is the bad distribution they have. SPLIT HEAVEN come from Mexico and this is their third full length album. The band musically moves on the traditional heavy metal path with some melodic speed metal elements. Personally, I would say that their influences come mainly from the U.S. metal scene and I think that bands like LIZZY BORDEN, LEATHERWOLF and FIFTH ANGEL have contributed a lot to influence the band. Having listened to their previous album, I have to admit that here the band has improved to the point that they sound more inspired, they have nice melodies and a dynamic production that helps them display their whole talent. Also the singer once again sings with passion and his English sounds very good. If you want to listen to a good new band and a sound that we have not got used to listening to lately in the contemporary heavy metal scene, then you have to check out “Street Law”. It will keep you company for a long time! :)

Nick  "Verkaim"  Parastatidis

INSIDEAD Chaos ElecDead Massacre Records Official Website

If this is thrash metal, then I am a belly dancer… I think that not even their label could put them on a specific tag, so they used thrash metal, because they have some elements from that genre. Don’t rush to draw a conclusion from what I am saying. Not belonging to a specific genre, doesn’t necessarily mean that you are good or innovative. Most of the times this means that as a musician you don’t know what exactly you want to play. You don’t have a clear image of how you want to sound and so you try everything. INSIDEAD is such a case. The band simply mixes lots of genres that start from groove metal and move to alternative rock and the Gothenburg death/thrash metal sound. Also sometimes the vocals, the harsh ones, reminded me of bands like EKTOMORF and SEPULTURA. All these might sound interesting to some of you, but the whole result is confusing and also typical. SO many bands in our days play this way. Apart from all this, I found the album repetitive and monotonous. The truth is that I was bored to death while I was listening to it. The few good ideas here are lost in the mediocrity of the end result as a whole. Avoid it…

Nick  "Verkaim"  Parastatidis

POWER THEORY Out of the Ashes Pure Steel Records Official Website

One of my favourite metal record labels has striken again. After the great debut album of ARTIZAN, here we have the first album of this U.S. metal band. The band has already released a single and an EP before they made the decision to make a full length-album. "Out of the Ashes" unfortunately tired me... The band has to improve their songwritnig skills in order to progess!! The best track of the album is "Uriel's Tears", namely the ballad of the album which is really great!! "Slay the Beast Within" is also a good track! In coclusion this is a mediocre album and Pure Steel Records has way better releases to invest your money on like ARTIZAN, the last album of the Swiss EMERALD "No Mercy by Commandement" or the re-releases of HALLOWEEN, e.t.c.

Ioannis  "Knight of the Light"  Kaskamanidis

RIBSPREADER The Van Murders Vic Records Official Website

RIBSPREADER from Sweden are a very consistent band ever since their formation in 2003 and by that I mean that they've found their calling from the very beginning so there's no need for them to start experimenting or adding stuff to their formula. This trio is here with a clear image and purpose and this is to deliver old school in your face death metal with no deviations or enrichments whatsoever. You get the real deal here and "The Van Murders" is a fine example of old school Swedish death metal especially for those who are looking for classic sounding stuff. I understand that for some people this is translated as generic and truth be told this album is as generic as it gets, but this doesn't necessarily mean that it is either boring or tiring. On the contrary, the album consists of nine tight death metal anthems with deep guttural vocals, heavy rhythm parts, ominous riffs, raw guitars and no extra frills or many groovy parts. This is old school death metal as it should be played and to be honest I think "The Van Murders" is one of the finest contemporary examples of the first era of Swedish death metal.

Christine  Parastatidou

OBSCURA Omnivium Relapse Records Official Website

OBSCURA from Germany have been around since 2002 and so far have released three full length albums, including this one, with each and every one of them showcasing the band members' flawless technique and skills. The fans of the technical extreme metal must have heard the name before, as OBSCURA was created from the ashes and driving forces of NECROPHAGIST and PESTILENCE. These two colossal bands will be automatically translated in the minds of the connoisseurs as top notch technical/progressive and yet brutal death metal and they'll be right on the money, because this is exactly what OSBURA have been offering us all this time and continue doing with "Omnivium". However, for my personal taste "Omnivium" is good, but it's nothing so extraordinary that would make me jump from joy. Let me explain myself... the technique is flawless, the rhythm and tempo changes are stunning, the whole dark atmosphere is superb and the melodic lines whenever present are breathtaking and spice the songs up a lot. What I didn't like is the feeling of over-effort from the band that I got and by that I mean that there were times that the structures and themes were so chaotic, intermingling and complex that they made the end result hard to follow. They made me feel as if the band tried to show their skills on purpose and deliberately tried to create something impressive. It IS impressive, no doubt about it, but it's so full of sounds, scale changes and tempo alterations that it became tiring for me from a point on. Plus the changes are so often you aren't given the time to understand, digest and like a certain idea, because it is almost automatically replaced by another one. "Omnivium" is a very good piece of technical progressive death metal, but I'd like it a lot more if it weren't so complex and overlayered.... Sometimes less is more.

Christine  Parastatidou

REV 16:8 Ashlands AFM Records Official Website

A couple of years after their debut, "Grand Tidal Rave", the Swedish blacksters strike back with their sophomore work titled "Ashlands" aiming to bring bitterness, devastation and isolation to the hearts of their listeners with their frozen epic rendition of black metal. Their compositions are sharp and frozen with really fast tempos and countless blast beats and a dark epic atmosphere that brings to mind the old school Norwegian scene or what's considered by many the true, pure black metal sound. I think this presentation sums up everything regarding this band's music neatly, because what REV 16:8 are here to offer you is primitive black metal with disorted guitars, fast rhythms and hellish vocals all of which is supported and delivered by a dirty and muddy production that enhances the intensity and extremity of the songs. All in all, "Ashlands" is a decent piece of work in the black metal genre that will please those who look for and like traditional sounds, but on the other hand we could also say that it's also rather typical and common. The choice is yours...

Christine  Parastatidou

MERCILESS DEATH Holocaust High Roller Records Official Website

In my search on the Internet I found at least three bands with this moniker, so the first thing I need to do here is to let you know which band we're dealing with and it's no other than the one from Poland who was formed in 1987, making them one of the very first death/thrash metal bands ever to emerge in the worldwide extreme metal scene. Their sound is raw and sharp and even though "Holocaust" isn't a new album, but it was in fact first released as a demo in 1992, it's still edgy and aggressive. That's one factor of how we can measure how successful and good a band's music is... if it still has the same effect on the fans even though it's been out for almost twenty years, then there's definitely something good going on here. This six track demo was re-released in 2009 on CD by Thrashing Madness Records with a new artwork and five bonus live tracks and now almost two years later, it's being re-released for the first time on vinyl by High Roller Records. From what I've found out, MERCILESS DEATH, after a long hiatus that lasted from 1993 till 2009, have decided to get back together and unleash their fury upon the masses one more time. "Holocaust" is one certain way to make their name circulate in the underground scene, since it contains some refined and great primitive, old school death/black metal anthems with topics about Satanism, evil and damnation. This vinyl is a good recommendation for those of you who still like the old school extreme raw sound!

Christine  Parastatidou

PROCESSION The Cult of Disease High Roller Records Official Website

I think that PROCESSION from Chile are one of the best and most special newcoming doom metallers the worldwide scene has to recommend. Less than a year ago I reviewed their debut full length album, "Destroyers of the Faith". This time I'm not reviewing a new album, but actually a work that was released a couple of years ago. "The Cult of Disease" is the band's debut EP that is being re-released through High Roller Records on vinyl and I guess this was a necessary move demanded by the circumastances and the band's fans, because PROCESSION deliver top notch compositions that contain the quintessence of good and passionate doom metal. "The Cult of Disease" is close to this sound's origins and draws influence from and has similarities to the colossal bands of the genre like CANDLEMASS and SOLITUDE AETERNUS. Plus, as I've stated in my previous review, their sound also has some touches that bring to mind DOOMSWORD, especially in the way sometimes the singer interprets the songs. If you are looking for good doom metal that stays loyal to the scene's roots, but also has a fresh and personal approach, then PROCESSION is a name that easily comes to mind. Check them out and I'm sure you won't regret it!

Christine  Parastatidou

THE WOUNDED KINGS Embrace of the Narrow House High Roller Records Official Website

THE WOUNDED KINGS from the UK, as their moniker lets us understand, revolve around and dwell into dark, atmospheric music paths with a heavy dose of doom metal. "Embrace of the Narrow House" is the debut work of this duet that was originally released in 2008 through Eichenwald Industries. Almost three years later, the band, with the help and support of High Roller Records, decided to re-release it only this time on a vinyl format. Like I said the band's sound can fit in the wider genre of doom metal since they do have quite a lot of references to this sound, but they take their music and their inspiration a step further by adding a great deal of ambient, down tempo tunes and themes and imbuing all their compositions into a really dark and eerie atmosphere. If the latter along with the creation of deep dark feelings of isolation and solitude are what you are looking for in music, I'd advise you to give THE WOUNDED KINGS a chance. If not, then I don't think there's anything you'll find appealing here.

Christine  Parastatidou

GHOST TOWER Curse of the Black Blood Evil Coven Records Official Website

There are some bands that get inspiration from the traditional metal sound and its clichés and manage to create a sound that is so unique that you recognize them from the first listening. The risk to have a weird sound is that you need to have patient listeners that will be able to eventually understand what your music is all about. GHOST TOWER, with their debut album, introduce to us the kind of metal that I usually call weird metal. Now, there is no reason for this term to frighten you, because the band is influenced by the 80’s metal sound and have lots of influences from BLACK SABBATH, THIN LIZZY, JUDAS PRIEST and early MERCYFUL FATE. You can even find influences from the N.W.O.B.H.M. movement. The interesting thing with them is that they manage to mix all their influences in their unique style and the whole atmosphere brings to mind some other and good weird metal releases like the first album of TWISTED TOWER DIRE entitled “The Curse of Twisted Tower Dire” (and my personal favourite) and SOLSTICE’s “New Dark Age”. All the above are mentioned only to give you a hint of how they sound, since you have to listen to this album on your own in order to have a complete image. In such releases the words are poor to describe completely the music and such is the case with GHOST TOWER. The band also has a charismatic guitarist and a singer that fits to the whole atmosphere of the band, but he needs to fix a bit his high notes. “Curse of the Black Blood” is a good album that all the fans of quality obscure metal have to check out. My favourite songs from the album are: “Red Harvest” (this one reminded me of “The Witch's Eyes" from TWISTED TOWER DIRE), “Midnight Epiphany” (an IRON MAIDEN meets SLOUGH FEG kind of song), “Fate of Beldam” and “Atrocity's Tomb”.

Nick  "Verkaim"  Parastatidis

LYRIEL Paranoid Circus AFM Records Official Website

Imagine…. I could never imagine that I would ever enjoy a female fronted gothic metal band. Well, the truth is that LYRIEL are not the typical gothic metal band. Yes, they do have the ethereal female vocals which to my ears sound like a combination between Loreena McKennitt and Candice Night, but the thing that makes this album interesting is that the guys mix their metal with some great folk/Celtic melodies played by the cello and violin along with some symphonic parts. The whole result is really dreamy and leaves you with a sense that you are lost to a world of fairy tale where everything is pure. The title of the album carries the word paranoid, but personally I found their music very thought provoking and tranquil. Now, for you that you are bored to read the above mentioned description of mine, let me ask you to imagine a mix between LOREENA MCKENNITT, BLACKMORE’S NIGHT, NIGHTWISH and FALCONER and then you will pretty much have an image of what you should expect to listen to from an album like “Paranoid Circus”. I don’t know which the reasons that led AFM Records to re release this album are, but I am glad they did. It’s a beautiful release and if I find it in a good price (even I that I like traditional metal) I will probably buy it ?. The fans of this sound and female fronted metal bands must not miss it.

Nick  "Verkaim"  Parastatidis

TOKYO BLADE Thousand Men Strong Fastball Music Official Website

This is the new album of TOKYO BLADE after 15 years! For those who don't know them, this band is one of the pioneers of classic heavy metal. Their two first albums (“Tokyo Blade”, “Night of the Blade”) and their EP "Midnight Rendez-vous" are real heavy metal gems. The band later turned into more melodic stuff. The new album is a return to their classic roots. They play heavy metal with an up-to date production. The production was made by the famous Chris Tsangarides who has also made the production for JUDAS PRIEST's "Painkiller"!! Tsangarides has also colaborated with other famous artists like Ozzy Osbourne, THIN LIZZY, Y&T, FREE, BLACK SABBATH, Ian Gillan and ANVIL among others. The album is good and my favourite songs are  "Lunch-Case", "Forged in Hell's Fire" and "Codemned to Fire". The album also contains a new version of the classic anthem "Night of the Blade" which is good but I will definitely stick to the old one!! The new vocalist Nicolaj Ruhnow is good. In conclusion this is a good comeback from a legendary N.W.O.B.H.M. band. The friends of classic heavy metal should invest!

Ioannis  "Knight of the Light"  Kaskamanidis

U.D.O. Leatherhead EP AFM Records Official Website

English and American people like to say “You can't teach an old dog new tricks” and that’s true for this great musician that hears to the name UDO. On this EP you will have the chance to listen to 4 songs that move on the known style of the musician. So, if you like the mid – tempo ACCEPT like songs with the catchy choruses then you will get here exactly that. Let me describe to you in a few words the 4 songs of this EP. The first track is entitled “Leatherhead” and will be included in the upcoming album of U.D.O. entitled “REV-Raptor“. The song is a mid – tempo composition that brings to mind songs like “Balls to the Wall”. I think it is OK to listen to, but nothing extraordinary. “Rock`N´Roll Soldiers” will be included also in the upcoming album of U.D.O. and this one has a “Metal Heart” kind of vibe and a chorus that you want to sing again and again. This is definitely the hit of this release and a song that is fit to be played in live shows. Yeah it is my favourite! “Free or Rebellion” was previously available on the “Thundervision” DVD and I am really glad that they decided to release it here. It’s another great sing along song. A song that you will play loud till your neighbors get the hell out of there or end up liking heavy metal. Finally we have the song “Run” which is taken also from the “Thundervision” DVD and is the kind of power ballad that U.D.O. Has got us used to during his entire metal career. It is a pleasant composition, but I have listened to much better songs  than this one. Also the E.P. will include two video – clips of the songs “Jingle Balls” and “Leatherhead”. All in all this E.P. might not be the best release of U.D.O. but it is sincere and will satisfy his fans. And I am one of his fans! 

Nick  "Verkaim"  Parastatidis

ARGUS Boldly Stride the Doomed Cruz del Sur Music Official Website

This is the second album from this American band. They shouldn't be confused with the same titled American band which released a homonym EP back in 1983 and they are active again. This band was created five years ago and they made, so far, a demo and two albums. I really liked their debut and I really enjoyed this one as well. The band plays power/doom metal. They have a good production, they know how to play their instruments and they have good songwriting skills which is quite unusual for the style that they play, at least according to my taste. The vocals are also good and the guitar work remarkable. The tunes that I enjoyed the most were "A Curse on the World" and "Durendal". In conclusion this is a great album for its genre and the fans should invest!! The rest should try to listen to it first. I think that many lads who are into classic heavy metal stuff will like them!

Ioannis  "Knight of the Light"  Kaskamanidis

RAM Under the Scythe EP High Roller Records Official Website

Miracles do happen after all or maybe I have to say like James Bond “Never Say Never”. Until now I was not big fan of RAM and although I have listened to great comments from many people, the band never did appeal to me. And then comes this 7 inch release of RAM and makes me jump up with enthusiasm. Here the band plays the kind of heavy metal that I want to listen to. High pitched vocals, passionate playing and inspiration that flows. The “Under the Scythe” song grabs you from the first note. Moving on the JUDAS PRIEST forms it's the kind of song that makes you bang your head and sing along. The second one is entitled “Evil” and here the band just makes me admit that they are great musicians. This one is a MERCYFULL FATE meets early IRON MAIDEN song and really blows your head off. “Under the Scythe” is probably the best EP that I have listened to lately and a great sample of how 80’s influenced metal bands should sound…

Nick  "Verkaim"  Parastatidis

ARTIZAN Curse of the Artizan Pure Steel Records Official Website

This is the first full length album of this U.S. metal band. The band also released a self-titled EP in 2010. Some of its members have played in LEVIATHAN, a known progressive/power metal band. The style of the band is technical U.S. power metal. The production is really good, the vocals are really great and the songwriting of the band manages to maintain the listener's interest. The guitar work is also great while the drumming is really powerful!! My favourite anthems from thew album are "Rise", "Fire", "Game within a Game" and "The Curse of the Artizan"... practically half of the album. In conclusion the album is great and for me it is one of the best albums for 2011. Pure Steel Records has released some really good albums lately, but this one is the best!! I think that all the fans of this genre should buy it, but I also urge the fans of other metal genres to at least listen to it.

Ioannis  "Knight of the Light"  Kaskamanidis

ZERO ILLUSIONS Oblivion ZI Production Official Website

This is the kind of release that usually divides the fans of traditional heavy metal. The ones that are in the classic 80’s metal will despise this one and those who listen to more modern sounding metal will probably like it. My job though is not to predict how both sides will take it. I am writing here in order to state my opinion after listening to this release a couple of times. “Oblivion” is the second release of the Swedish band ZERO ILLUSIONS and musically I can say that it moves on the paths of traditional metal along with some modern and groove elements. They also have some hard rock touches that give to their sound more variety. The things that I liked a lot about the band are that genuine passion that all of their compositions they have and that they are tight as a fist and also very talented musicians. “Oblivion” might not be something new for the modern heavy metal sound, but it has freshness and a sincerity that convinces you that ZERO ILLUSIONS are made to play this kind of music. Personally, I like more traditional sounding metal, but I have to admit that “Oblivion” is a good release and if you know what you will listen to here, then you will have some good times enjoying it. 

Nick  "Verkaim"  Parastatidis

STARGAZERY Eye on the Sky Pure Legend Records Official Website

This is the first full length album by this Finnish metal band and the first release by Pure Legend Records! Pure Legend is a subdivision of the great record label Pure Steel Records. The band plays melodic power metal and has only released a single in 2007 up till now. I am not the biggest fan of this metal genre but I really enjoy listening to good power metal albums full of melody. These guys have done a great jod on this album. It is loud and clear that they have worked a lot for it!! The album is really good and it manages to keep the interest of the listeners intact!! But the most important thing is that some of its tracks are really great!!! The power ballad "Everytime I Dream of You" is really a classic masterpiece!!! "Dying", "How Many Miles" and "S.O.S." are also really great songs while in the end of the album the is a cover of BLACK SABBATH's "Headless Cross"! The vocals of Jari Tiura (ex- MSG) are great while the rest of the guys have an adequate technique!! So don't hesitate to listen to this album because it is definitely one of the best albums for 2011 in its genre!

Ioannis  "Knight of the Light"  Kaskamanidis

URIAH HEEP Into the Wild Frontiers Records Official Website

This the new album of this really great English hard rock band! This is their 23rd studio album, three years after their last attempt! On this album the group seems to be in a really good mood!!! Mick Box, Bernie Shaw and their company are in great shape!! They have managed to release a really good album and it's difficult for me to say which tracks are the best of this album but maybe "I Can See You", "Money Talk","Believe", "Lost" and "I am Ready" are a bit superior compared to the rest. In conclusion this is one of the best comebacks from a mainstream band that I have listened to these last few years along with OVERKILL, SCORPIONS and maybe ELOY. Here we should note that even though URIAH HEEP is a known band personally I think that they are quite underrated in the rock world in comparison to other inferior groups like AEROSMITH. So the fans of classic rock should buy this one! In case someone doesn't know them even though they are a forty year old rock band he/she should first buy albums like "Look at Yourself" and "Demons and Wizards" which are of course superior to this one.

Ioannis  "Knight of the Light"  Kaskamanidis

BILLION DOLLAR BABIES Die for Diamonds Pure Rock Records Official Website

Here we have another band from Sweden. Formed back in 2005 this is their first full length album (they also have an EP released back in 2005). To tell you the truth I hadn’t heard them before and that’s a shame because here we have a great album of classic 80s melodic rock/hair metal. It’s a classic 10 song – less than 40 minutes CD with lots of hooks and melodies. From the opening track “Boys Nights Out” with the horn section making the difference and the AEROSMITH/KISS feeling present you understand that something good is happening here. “Restless Minds” and “Key to my Heart” (which is destined to be a hit) are truly melodic rock gems. Other superb pieces of work are “Highest Mountain”, the great rocker “Right on Time” (with the POISON feeling from its start to the end) and the SKID ROW-ish “We Don't Live Forever”. The singer reminds me of the great Jean Beauvoir of the CROWN OF THORNS fame. Another great surprise from Sweden, which is the new melodic rock promise land. (Check the video clips of "Boys Night Out" and "Restless Minds" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rynEhLwULCY and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OuugwU9yEes&feature=related.

Chris Kappas

TANGENT PLANE Project Elimi 7Hard Records Official Website

This is the third really of these German metallers. TANGENT PLANE were formed in Berlin 15 years ago in Berlin and they released an EP in 1996 and a full length album in 2008. This is their second full length album. TANGENT PLANE also recorded a 10-track demo between 2003 and 2004 but it was never released because of the bad sound it had. The mixing and the mastering of the current album was done by the Greek Dimitris Liapakis. The band's style is progressive metal with a few power metal elements. I wouldn't say that their sound is similar to a specific band... "Project Elimi" lasts for 76 minutes and it is quite a tiring album... Unfortunately it doesn't maintain the listener's interest. There are some really interesting parts in some songs but in general the songwriting is mediocre. I hope they improve this in their next work. Then we can talk about a really great album because their sound is good and the band members in terms of technique are more than adequate. Until then the fans of this genre should hear other stuff.

Ioannis  "Knight of the Light"  Kaskamanidis

REVEAL Nocturne of Eyes and Teeth High Roller Records Official Website

Sweden is considered nowadays to be one of the strongholds of all forms of heavy metal and it's true that it's one of the biggest and most important cradles of our beloved music, having to offer us countless of top notch bands from every heavy metal genre. It's also true that Sweden is mainly known for its melodic death metal scene and its heavy/power metal bands, but this doesn't mean that there isn't space for other sounds to flourish and evolve and REVEAL is one such band that revolves around and takes influence from the old school black metal sound and more specifically from the pioneers and one of the creators of the black metal music and image... the mighty VENOM. VENOM and their sound is all I need to mention here in order to give you a clue as to where this debut album is headed and what you should expect. This doesn't mean that the band is a simple copy cat, it's just that the aforementioned band's influence, in the way they compose and shape their songs, is too intense and vivid. So, if you like this retro, sharp and raw black metal sound, then you should rest assured that REVEAL do it justice and deliver it in the best possible way. The album is going to be limited to 500 copies, 100 of which are going to be gold vinyl and the other 400 ordinary black. So, "Nocturne of Eyes and Teeth" is a great album for those who miss old school retro black metal and are vinyl maniacs!

Christine  Parastatidou

THE POODLES Performocracy Frontiers Records Official Website

We are finally counting album No 4 for Swedish melodic rockers THE POODLES and I have to say that this band works overtime! From 2005 until now they have released 4 studio albums, 1 live CD and 1 DVD! Not bad at all! The new CD continues the legacy of the previous album, "Clash of the Elements".  I can’t say that I was totally excited with it. Besides, the band put very high standards with their first album "Metal Will Stand Tall" back in 2006. On their new album we have some great songs like "Father to a Son", the single "Cuts Like a Knife", "Your Time Is Now", "Bring Back the Night" and "Vampire’s Call". Apart from these the rest of the album is on good standards with a very nice ballad ("As Time Is Passing") and a couple of fillers ("I Believe in You"). The production and the band’s technique are superb and I can't say that I was dissapointed by "Performocracy", but stil I can’t say that it reaches the high level of their first album. I have to admit that it is as good as the previous one and for sure much better than "Sweet Trade". The fans will love it. For the rest it’s just a good album. Check the amazing video clip for the single "Cuts Like a Knife" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oIoWP450gNI.

Chris Kappas

KING KOBRA King Kobra Frontiers Records Official Website

It has been quite a few years since KING KOBRA last released an album. Band leader Carmine Appice gathered original members David Michael Philips (guitars), Johnny Rod (bass) and Mick Sweda (guitars) and decided to make a new album. For the singer’s spot they recruited Paul Shortino (ex-ROUGH CUTT, QUIET RIOT)... A very good choice when you make a hard rock record. But is KING KOBRA’s comeback a hard rocking album? Yes, it is. And an excellent one, I might add. The opener “Rock this House” starts fast and furious with a party feel. What an excellent start to the album! “Turn up the Good Times” goes on in the same manner; Party, party! Things cool down a bit with “Live Forever”; a fantastic mid tempo melodic rocker. Next up is “Tear Down the Walls” and I can tell you that the 80s are back! We get another fast hard rocker in “This is How we Roll” and the party keeps going! “Midnight Woman” is another highlight! “We Got a Fever” is an excellent bluesy hard rocking tune and we're back to the party mood with “Top of the World”. Good stuff! “You Make it Easy” is a melodic hard rock masterpiece. Wow! It is time for another mid tempo melodic rocker in “Crying Turns to Rain”. Next up is “Screamin’ for More”. Need I say more? The song title says it all… The last song “Fade Away” is a beautiful ballad. To sum it all up: the songs are excellent, the band and Paul Shortino are on top form. The result is a great hard rocking album. Every hard rocker should get a copy. Absolutely great stuff!

Kostas  Rigas