The Kali Diaries:

Star Trek: Into Darkenss Spoilers, Sweetie*

2013-05-19T03:59:00.000-04:00

Star Trek: Into Darkness

May 2013

Into Darkness is a bit of a double entente. It could mean the descent into darkness of some of the key characters. It could mean a toe dip into the Eugenics Wars (Did anyone other than me read this series?). Or it could be a brazen in your face to old school Trekkies about the state of the “new” Star Trek.

Let me start by saying, I grew up on the classic series. For the first decade plus of my life, I grew up believing that Star Trek was real. I knew that there were galaxies far far away and that I could boldly go where no one has gone before; as long as I had loyal friends and a cocky attitude! My overriding thumbs up comes from loving Karl Urban. I’ll watch him recite the phone book. Simon Pegg is gobsmackingly funny. Of course, I have a massive crush on Zachary Quinto. Having some of my favourite actors on one screen elicits a massive SQUEEEEEE from my lips.

I like the direction the new Star Trek has taken. It’s bold. It’s flashy. It’s adrenaline fueled. Is it “classic” Star Trek? No. I don’t expect it to be. Star Trek is an extension of Gene Roddenberry. Star Trek was his vision of how life should be. It’s based on what Gene saw in HIS life, HIS experiences, HIS expectations and frustrations with humanity. No one, NO ONE born in the 70s or 80s can hope to duplicate his vision. We aren’t privy to having the type of social interactions he had. We can only view Star Trek and by extension write about Star Trek based on our environment and societal commentary. We are a product of our environment and sad to say, the American environment has been in decline.

Instead of fighting for a better tomorrow, most now just whinge and moan about the situation. In our predominant sense of entitlement, we want things to change, think someone should change it, as long as it isn’t us as we’re too darn busy. The impetus to change things and make a social difference is replaced by the need to consume things, to buy things, to loose ourselves in an illusion of success. The collective America rushes about from one big thing to the next big thing in a hyper zombified state of being. Shiny. Flashy lights. Squirrel.

That’s what Star Trek: Into Darkness is. It’s shiny. It’s flashy lights. It’s fast paced and kinetic. There is no depth or breadth to it. I don’t feel for the characters. Unlike the family that TOS was, these actors see each other a few weeks a year and with a four year gap in between. They haven’t had the time to form bonds and become close. The lack of real and personal connection shows on screen. They are all competent actors; but they aren’t friends or enemies or have baggage.

As an uber sci-fi geek, I acknowledged the Dr. Who nod: there are fixed points in time and space that cannot be changed. Nudged. Nuanced. Haphazard. But ultimately, there are some things cannot and did not “change”. There is a scene that should evoke emotional stirrings but it was flat. I did shed a tear at the crucial moment, but in hindsight, the tear was shed because I had seen it before and I was channeling that image (which was essentially the same), those words (which were essentially the same), and how it impacted my life.

That being said; I understand how some die hard Trekkies will not like the film. It’s a rehash of what’s gone before and a paltry one at that. Go into it with a firm grasp of what it is. It’s fun. Things explode. Great score. Iconic scenes. Cheesy one liners. Just enjoy it.

Wringer 13 - Sworn To Oath

2013-05-13T07:35:00.000-04:00

Sworn to Oath is a totally bitchin' band out of the Midlands in the UK. I was introduced to the band last Spring when I reviewed their EP Leave You For Dead for This Is Not A Scene. They've made two EP's and both are just smoking. They are currently working on a full length album and gigging their way across England. Definitely check them out!
Official Sworn To Oath on Facebook

Who are you, really, and what do you do?

Tom Shaw - Bass/Vocals, Dave Leese - Guitar/ Vocals, Al Junior - Drums/Vocals and we do Sworn to Oath

What’s the best thing about being in your band?

Creating music together that we're proud of and excites us.

How has being a touring musician changed you?

It's not really changed any of us. We've been a "road band" since day one. We love being on stage together and being in a different place every night.

Where do you get your inspiration from?

Inspiration can come from literally anywhere; from just jamming together and bouncing ideas off one another from scratch or from life situations that we've each either experienced or read / heard about. There is no right or wrongs in our song writing process. The only rule we have is "let's just try it."

What is your favourite song and why?

Each of us has such varying tastes in music. It would be impossible to single out just one song.

What does “music” mean to you?

It's what we live for. Driving the band forward and playing music together is what comes first for all of us.

What do you think is your greatest achievement in the field of music?

We haven't reached where we want to be yet. Although making it to the point we're at now is an achievement in itself.

What is your greatest achievement outside of music?

Tom once ate 23 slices of pizza at Pizza Hut.

Describe your most unusual / rabid fan.

There isn't anyone that sticks out as unusual or rabid, as of yet. We do have quite loyal fans that travel literally all over to see us and we appreciate each and every person that takes the time to come to any of our shows. We always try to speak to and meet as many people as we can and hang with them after the show if possible. It's important to keep a common ground with people that take the time to come and see your band. We're a very social bunch of guys so we try not to have a divide between us and the audience. Our shows are just a big party and everyone is invited.

If you could invite any 3 people (living or dead) to a dinner party, who would they be and why?

Dimebag Darrel, Phil Lynott, and Bon Scott purely because it wouldn't be a dinner party. It'd be the biggest drinking bender in history.

What three things are on your “bucket list”?

Make a debut album that stands the test of time. Tour the USA. Play a main stage slot at Donington.

What are you most grateful for?

Playing shows to people that support us

If you could reduce everything you are and everything you stand for to one word, what would it be?

PASSION

James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett perform National Anthem at Giants Game

2013-05-03T23:21:00.002-04:00

Fuck yeah!!! That's what I'm talking about! This is why METALLICA are the best band in the land!!!This is why James "Papa Het" Hetfield and Kirk Hammett totally rule! Gives you goose bumps! Hetfield and Hammet play the National Anthem at the San Francisco Giants baseball game on May the 4th, 2013.

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Friday Night Dance Party - Slayer Edition

2013-05-03T12:49:00.001-04:00

Slayer has been one of my favourite bands as long as I can remember. I picked up Reign In Blood in 1986. Mind Blown. Slayer became my "happy" music. No matter how I felt, the raw aggressive energy put a goofy smile on my face. For most of my high school years, the first thing I heard upon waking was Slayer. My bestest Slayer memory was seeing them in 1991 in Arizona. I ended up with tickets in the seated section ***shudders*** The Clash of the Titans tour. The cool thing about the seats? Looking down onto the floor as a large circle pit erupted during Slayers set. It was like seeing a whirlpool form before your eyes! In the darkness shapes coalesced and in the blur all there was was flow, movement, energy: fascinating! I was transfixed... for about a minute and then I scrambled down to be a part of it. Many Slayer shows followed and many Slayer cassettes then CD's were purchased. Tonite's Friday Night Dance Party is a salute to you, Mr. Jeff Hanneman and the music you lovingly brought to life for me and millions of happy punters!

"Cult" - Henry Rollins Show

"Disciple" - Henry Rollins Show

"Seasons in the Abyss"

"War Ensemble" - Live 1991

"Killing Fields" - Live 1995

"World Painted Blood"

"Serenity in Murder"

JEFF HANNEMAN - R.I.P. (1964 - 2013)

2013-05-02T19:35:00.001-04:00

It is with a heavy heart and a saddened mind that I pass along the devastating news that Slayer guitarist Jeff Hanneman has died. The cause of death is listed as liver failure. If you recall, it was about a year ago Kali Diaries posted Hanneman took the stage at Big 4 in Indio. This was a surprise as he was recovering from a nasty spider bite from 2011 which put him in a medically induced coma. At this time it isn't known if his death is related to his troubles from said spider bite.

The band posted the following on their Facebook page:

Slayer is devastated to inform that their bandmate and brother, Jeff Hanneman, passed away at about 11AM this morning near his Southern California home. Hanneman was in an area hospital when he suffered liver failure. He is survived by his wife Kathy, his sister Kathy and his brothers Michael and Larry, and will be sorely missed.

Our Brother Jeff Hanneman, May He Rest In Peace (1964 - 2013)

The Kali Diaries wishes to extend it's deepest sympathies and prayers to Jeff's family and friends.

DUNCAN FEGREDO RETURNS TO MIKE MIGNOLA’S HELLBOY IN AN ALL-NEW ORIGINAL GRAPHIC NOVEL!

2013-04-27T22:37:00.000-04:00

CHICAGO, IL, APRIL 27–Following up on a collaboration which spanned multiple series, leading up to Mike Mignola’s return to both writing and drawing his beloved demon, artist Duncan Fegredo returns to tell a story about a young Hellboy’s first brush with hell.

In this beautifully drawn fifty-six-page graphic novel, a young Hellboy runs away from the B.P.R.D., only to stumble upon a weird and fantastical circus and the few demons from hell who inhabit it.

“This one owes a lot to Ray Bradbury’s Something Wicked This Way Comes (pretty much my favorite circus story of all time), but even more to Pinocchio—especially all the spooky, disturbing bits Disney left out. And the work Duncan is doing here is just flat-out amazing,” said Mike Mignola.

“Growing up is tough enough, even when you don’t know the weight of the world rests on the future of your yet-diminutive shoulders. Mike has woven a tale of coming of age for the young Hellboy made all the more poignant for knowing his future. Wonderful, magical, terrifying, this is epic Hellboy on a smaller stage,” Duncan Fegredo added.

Hellboy: The Midnight Circus arrives in a beautiful hardcover format similar to the previously released Hellboy: House of the Living Dead (created in collaboration with legendary artist Richard Corben in 2011). This new tale arrives on shelves on October 23, carrying a retail price of $14.99.

EVILE - Skull (Earache Records)

2013-04-27T22:32:00.001-04:00

May 27 marks the date that Evile "come back" with their fourth album, Skull on Earache Records. What does one expect from such a hotly pulsating star? One expects it to be as blistering as the Toxic Avenger, harder than Mjolner, and more ferocious than Wolverine. High expectations, but the quartet from Huddersfield delivers.

The opening track is also the first video released, "Underworld". My favourite bits of this song are the guitar solos. Ol Drake is a beast and he commands his guitar like an evil wizard. The guitar sounds are part Slayer and part Testament with a hint of Metallica. It's a very engaging stew to the ears. Evile is a thrash metal band that hasn't strayed to far from their roots. Evile frontman Matt Drake comments:

"We are proud to release the first full track from our upcoming album 'Skull' for you to wrap your ears around. Hopefully this gives you a good idea of what's in store for you all come May 27th.

"Underworld is a title I've wanted to use for a very long time but hadn't found the right song for it; it's named after the venue in London of the same name as it's been one of my favourite places to play for years now. The song itself isn't directly about the venue but it's definitely dedicated to it. The song is inspired by a short sci-fi story I read about the earth's surface becoming uninhabitable and people being forced to live deep underground. It ties in to one of the overall themes of the album which is about things being hidden, be it thoughts, feelings, motivations or truths. At the same time it's about something else but I don't want to give everything away all at once; it's better if you make up your own mind!

The title track, "Skull", showcases how as a band, they've become tighter; even more precision in their playing. The opening riffs highlighting Ben Carter's drumming hightens your senses. "Skull" is a mosh pit in the making. The drumming and guitars are executed with staccato like intensity. The song is a one dimensional thrash fest, there are passages of harmony and melody that bob and weave throughout the song.

"Head of the Demon" is my favourite track. The writing and vocals have swagger and attitude. This track is going to be wicked cool live. The "sound" of the track is flavourful, rich and deep, like percolated Costa Rican coffee. At 3:42 the drumming and guitar work come together in a way to make the listener very happy and rush to hit the repeat button. But dont' do it just yet. "What You Become" also have swagger and attitude. "What You Become" have a tad more "groove" than "Head of the Demon". The song lives in the pocket.

I can't say enough about Ol and Matt's guitar work. How many ways can you say their playing is just that damn good? Give a listen to the track "Tomb". "Tomb" is atmospheric in a way that exudes what thermal fluid dynamics would sound like if it were transcribed to a heavy metal song. Three minutes into the song it becomes a typical heavy metal slow, powerful, punchy song. This is where the headbanging and fist pumping starts. Four and a half minutes in, a nifty prog passage that slides into Euro metal territory only to fall into a hypnotic guitar solo.

The bottom line is I'm an Evile supporter. Have been since 2010. For me, the band is always on the front foot. They play solid attacking thrash metal music. Evile could make a recording of Hammond organ music using kazoos and I'd buy it! And I'd love it! They are that talented! If for some unfortunate reason you do not own Infected Nations, Enter the Grave, and Five Serpent's Teeth ... where the bloody hell have you been all this time???? Ok, fine. Go buy SKULL and work your way backwards. Either way, you'll be a happy metal head.

SKULL is available to pre-order now in a huge selection of formats and bundles from the Earache Webstore in Europe at http://bit.ly/c7wbbN and in North America at http://bit.ly/9aOHhw

SKULL is also available on iTunes, including an instant grat track which you receive as soon as you pre-order the album. Pre-order SKULL now on iTunes at http://bit.ly/itunesskull

Official website - http://www.evile.co.uk
Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/evileuk
MySpace - http://www.myspace.com/evileuk
Twitter - http://twitter.com/evileuk
Tumblr - http://evile.tumblr.com

EVILE - Underworld (video)

2013-04-26T12:00:00.001-04:00

Squeeee One of the hardest working bands are back for another aural assault! EVILE releases official lyric video for the track "Underworld" from the new album SKULL. You can pick up SKULL on May 27th in Europe and June 11th in the USA.
Pre-order SKULL now:
Earache Europe Webstore - http://bit.ly/c7wbbN
Earache USA Webstore - http://bit.ly/9aOHhw
Century Media Distro (USA only) - http://bit.ly/13WkONo
iTunes - http://bit.ly/itunesskull

An HOUR a day and a Happy DJ!!!

2013-04-26T11:56:00.001-04:00

Happy Friday! Spend an hour on yourself by rocking out to these awesome tunes! Brought to you by Collapse, All Hail the Yeti, As I Lay Dying, Hate Squad, Bonded by Blood and Thames Burial! Stay Metal my friends!

EVILE Pre-Order SKULL !!!!!

2013-04-25T10:34:00.001-04:00

PRE-ORDER Evile's SKULL album from the label's own webstore and help towards getting METAL into the album charts!

Evile's "Skull" is out on MAY 27TH and there are several Pre-Order options below

Spread the word!

EUROPE Pre-Order
http://www.earache.com/webstore/index.php/cPath/788

NORTH AMERICA Pre-Order
http://earache.com/uswebstore/index.php/cPath/667_669_41

AMAZON UK Pre-Order
http://amzn.to/YtVMSJ

AMAZON.DE
http://www.amazon.de/Skull-Evile/dp/B00AYQYBMS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1365775958&sr=8-1&keywords=evile+skull
DOWNLOAD Pre-Order
https://cart.tmstor.es/product.php?id=11195

Listen to AUDIO SAMPLES here:
http://youtu.be/_5DIkTStAa0

As They Burn - Dream Collapse (video)

2013-04-24T19:35:00.001-04:00

SQUEEEEE As They Burn released a video from their epic album Will, Love, Life. As you know, I'm a huge lover of the new album: Metal As Fuck review: As They Burn - Will, Love, Life Kevin Trevor on vocals along with the gobsmackingly amazing guitar prowess of Hoby Arinosy and Fabio Meschini are to die for. The rhythm section of Ronald Pastor and Milton Bakech are tight. Will, Love, Life is a must have for every metal head's arsenal. Enjoy the new video: Dream Collapse and pick up the new album!

Beastwars - Caul of Time

2013-04-22T02:53:00.000-04:00

Beastwars released a new single ahead of the April release of new album Blood Becomes Fire. The new single entitled Caul of Time is quite chunky in the rhythm department. It also sounds quite dark and a bit twisted. The vocals are still wickedly sinister, as you'd expect from any Beastwars song. The band didn't muck about with their winning formula. Caul of Time is in the same vein as 2012's Beastwars (self titled album). Caul of Time is a weighty dark and heavy song. It evokes Blade Runner visuals. It makes you feel a tad bit uncomfortable. The bass has a ferocious momentum on this track. I'm definitely looking forward to hearing the entire album! Check out Beastwars on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/beastwars666 and download the album on Bandcamp: Blood Becomes Fire.

An HOUR a day and a Happy DJ!!!!

2013-04-19T13:10:00.002-04:00

You know that old adage, Sharing is Caring? Well, the Evil DJ in my brain is sharing some wicked groovy tunage with you! Take an hour out of your day and kick back and relax to the dulcet sounds of Diamond Plate, Collapse, Sworn to Oath, Bonded by Blood and many more! You can also LIKE the The Kali Diaries on Facebook to get more nifty tunage recommendations. SQUEEEEEE

Wringer 13: Melynda Jackson from EIGHT BELLS

2013-04-16T10:59:00.000-04:00

The Kali Diaries is back bringing you the best in music and mayhem. This month's Wringer 13 features Melynda Jackson from the band Eight Bells. If you are into mind expanding and thought provoking music, look no further than EIGHT BELLS.

Who are you, really, and what do you do?

Melynda Jackson. I make music to stay sane- ish. I also work a dead end job.

What’s the best thing about being in your band?

Making a big noise and having people to do that with. Free lessons in cooperation.

How has being a touring musician changed you?

Well beyond the financial consequences of choosing to tour instead of work, I would have to say that touring is a great test of a person's personality. Can you be in close quarters with the same people without upset? Can you look out for one another and rely on one another? How do you cope with an environment that is always changing? Are you able to do a lot of 'sit around and wait' for your 40 min to an hour set? Do you think it's worth it? Do you believe enough in what you are doing to upset your comfort zone? I think a person develops patience as a reward for touring. And also it is the best way to find out if you really do love to make music or what your actual motives are around what you are doing. Beyond all the philosophizing - It is also fun.

Where do you get your inspiration from?

Every day life; this includes, hope, hopelessness and everything that happens in-between.

What is your favourite song and why?

Depends on what day it is. It is impossible to have one favorite when you are a person who enjoys many different types of music.

What does “music” mean to you?

Music is a way of expressing feelings that are not easily explained with words. At least that is what I am going with for now.

What do you think is your greatest achievement in the field of music?

making albums that rely on collaborations

What is your greatest achievement outside of music?

Is there any achievement outside of music?

Describe your most unusual / rabid fan.

Rabid? hmmm. Luckily we don't have that type of fan. We have varied 'types' of people who are into what we do. They tend to be really sweet, loner types.

If you could invite any 3 people (living or dead) to a dinner party, who would they be and why?

Dining is a pleasure enjoyed most with close friends. There is no one I could name for this one.

What three things are on your “bucket list”?

I want to see the northern lights before I die. That is all.

What are you most grateful for?

the means and ability to create sound

If you could reduce everything you are and everything you stand for to one word, what would it be?

RELENTLESS

HAVOK - From the Cradle to the Grave video

2013-04-07T23:46:00.001-04:00

Havok are relentless and this new video proves it to anyone who doubts. From the Cradle to the Grave is from last year's Point of No Return album. Discussing the song’s lyrical inspiration, vocalist/guitarist Dave Sanchez says, “‘From The Cradle To The Grave’ is about America's first serial killer, H.H. Holmes. In the late 1800s, in Chicago, Holmes built a hotel specifically with murder in mind. It included doors that opened up to brick walls, staircases that lead to nowhere, and one-way rooms that once you entered, you never came out. He was a religious man and firmly believed that since he was born, the Devil was at his side. That being said, bang your head.”
You can read more about HAVOK here: Wringer 13: Reece Scruggs

Friday Night Dance Party: Party like it's Spring Time!

2013-04-06T07:48:00.001-04:00

It's almost but not quite totally unlike a Friday Night! Let's get a Dance Party on!!!! SQUEEEEE

JuJu Club - 수필러브
I totally rocked out to this track in 1997!! It deserves very loud playing!!! Warning: please move all objects away from your immediate vicinity as you will start windmilling about the flat and knock things over! And yes, that's bitchin' bass man Lee Tae Yoon laying down the heavy riffage!

Fitz and the Tantrums - Spark
I caught them at a Dave Matthews Band caravan show and fell in love. Another dancing around the flat song. Spark is from their upcoming album More Than Just a Dream.

Collapse - Acolyte
Been a massive fan of them since Bloodstock 2010. They are frakking awesome! Squeeee Pick up the new disk: Arms and the Covenant. The album is just as brutal as this track.

Toxic Holocaust - Agony of the Damned
A head banging circle pit worthy track from the new album The Ashes of Nuclear Destruction on Relapse Records.

All Hail the Yeti - When The Sky Falls
OMG - All Hail the Yeti are just the bomb diggidy! Get yer dancin shoes on coz this burner will make you shake and groove.

Burn it all down!!!!!

RIVAL SONS ANNOUNCE LIMITED EDITION RECORD STORE DAY UK VINYL

2013-03-16T14:01:00.001-04:00

RIVAL SONS have revealed that they will once again be offering a limited edition vinyl release for this year's Record Store Day in the UK and Europe, which takes place on Saturday, April 20th.

Founded in 2007 and officially kicked off in 2008 by METALLICA, Record Store Day takes place on the third Saturday of every April and brings together artists and independently-owned record stores around the world to celebrate the art of music. Special vinyl and CD released and various promotional products are made exclusively for the day and sold in independent stores.

To celebrate Record Store Day UK 2013, Earache Records and RIVAL SONS will be releasing an exclusive 10" vinyl picture disc, strictly limited to 1000 copies. The picture disc will feature the following tracks:

SIDE A
01. Manifest Destiny Pt. 1 (Live in Gothenburg)

SIDE B
01. Manifest Destiny Pt. 2 (Acoustic Version)
02. Nava (Full Length Version)

RIVAL SONS guitarist SCOTT HOLIDAY comments:

"As we've talked about quite often, all the band are big vinyl junkies. Travelling all over the globe, it's exciting to see how many people around the world are becoming enlivened by this vinyl trend - as they should! Vinyl is finding its place once again and improving the way we listen to and enjoy music. Living in the digital age, we've begun to realize how much quality and sonic experience we sacrifice for convenience, and how much is gained from hearing a recording sounding closer to the product we (as musicians and recording artists) intended to be enjoyed. That said, we're always excited to deliver something cool for Record Store Day, and this one coming up is one of my personal favorites.

"With all the response we've received for the Manifest Destiny tracks, we've decided to offer up something special: a very limited run on 10" dual-sided picture vinyl...

"Side A will be an inspired live version of Manifest Destiny Pt. 1, live from Gothenburg, Sweden, recorded on our last European tour, playing to a sold out theatre of very excited Swedes! Side B will be an acoustic interpretation of Manifest Destiny Pt. 2, mixing our love for Eastern and Native Indian flavors. Side B will also present the full length arrangement for my instrumental tune, Nava.

"What more could there be, you ask?! Well, we had a friend of ours create comic book style covers for the front and back of the jacket. The front depicting Pt. 1 and the back depicting Pt. 2. This release is very close to my heart, and something I think our fans will really dig. Limited to only 1000 copies... So get 'em while the gettin's gettin'!"

For more information and to see which stores are participating in Record Store Day UK, head to http://www.recordstoreday.co.uk

A small quantity of RIVAL SONS Record Store Day picture discs will also be released on April 20th via the Earache Webstore. Get your copy on the day in Europe at http://bit.ly/jucwYJ or get the import in North America at http://bit.ly/mtaFfm

See RIVAL SONS on tour in Europe at the following shows:

Mar. 22 - Bonn, Germany - Harmonie (WDR Rockpalast)
Mar. 23 - Aarhus, Denmark - Vox Hall
Mar. 24 - Malmo, Sweden - Malmo KB
Mar. 25 - Linkoping, Sweden - Linkoping Garden
Mar. 26 - Uppsala, Sweden - Uppsala Katalin
Mar. 28 - Hamburg, Germany - Mojo
Mar. 29 - Frankfurt, Germany - Zoom
Mar. 30 - Paris, France - Le Trabendo
Apr. 01 - Zurich, Switzerland - Komplex
Apr. 02 - Lyon, France - Ninkasi Kao
Apr. 04 - Treviso, Italy - New Age
Apr. 05 - Bologna, Italy - ZR
Apr. 06 - Arles, France - Cargo de Nuit
Apr. 08 - Utrecht, Netherlands - Tivoli
Apr. 09 - London, UK - Shepherds Bush Empire
Apr. 10 - Cardiff, UK - Solus
Apr. 11 - Birmingham, UK - Institute
Apr. 13 - Leeds, UK - Leeds Metropolitan University
Apr. 14 - Edinburgh, UK - Picture House
Apr. 15 - Preston, UK - 53 Degrees
Apr. 16 - Cambridge, UK - Junction

HEAD DOWN is due to be released in the USA on March 19th via Century Media/Earache Records.

Get more RIVAL SONS news and info at:

Official site - http://www.rivalsons.com
Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/rivalsons
MySpace - http://www.myspace.com/rivalsons
Twitter - http://twitter.com/rivalsons

Kolony Records to release Be'Lakor's Of Breath and Bone to North American Audience

2013-03-16T13:37:00.001-04:00

Italian label Kolony Records inked a brand new distribution deal for all of North America through DisManic via eOne Distribution. Kolony's aim is to expanded and reach more European fans and stores since it's 2008 formation. With the new distribution deal, they are able to furnish us some good music via Australian band Be'lakor. Of Breath and Bone is the band's third album and Kolony Records hopes this will bring them a wider audience. Of Breath and Bone was released in Europe last year to critical acclaim and Kolony hopes the June 2013 North American release will bring the same. The opening track, "Abeyance", boasts some good guitar harmonies by George Kosmas and Shaun Sykes over some solid drumming. George Kosmas's vocals remind me of 80s Fields of the Nephilim / Sisters of Mercy type thing. The modern sound and the waver vocals are a great mix. "Abeyance" is a wonderful mixture of vintage and modern metal.

http://www.belakorband.com/
http://www.facebook.com/belakorband

Wringer 13: Joel Graham from EVILE

2013-03-13T11:53:00.003-04:00

Since March is my birthday month, I decided that this month's Wringer 13 will be with my good buddy - and he of the loverly hair - one Mr. Joel Graham. Most will know him simply as EVILE's resident bass shredder. Joel joined the band in December of 2009 and his first live show with EVILE was in January 2010. Five Serpent's Teeth is the first EVILE album to feature Joel on bass. You can get your EVILE fix at Evile.co.uk and EVILE on Facebook.

Who are you, really, and what do you do?
I'm really Joel Graham when I'm not anyone else and I play bass in EVILE. I also drive everywhere and am the band's music library as I have the most stuff on my iPod.

What's the best thing about being in your band?
          Everything, like the lot! Touring, writing, recording, planning stuff, I like it all.

How has being a touring musician changed you?
I like to think it hasn't. Yes, when out touring it's all band stuff that takes place, 100%. But when I'm home it's back to the real world; working, cooking, and all real stuff. People around me would soon put me in my place if I "changed".

Where do you get your inspiration from?
From the younger me. I always dreamed and wanted to do this. So, I am.

What is your favourite song and why?
Shiiiiiiiit.... I really have so many depending on my mood.
Song that first blew me away: Queen - Prophets Song
Song I wanna hear out drinking: Kiss - Strutter
Song I wanna hear to make my arm hair stand on end: The Who - Baba O'Riley

What does "music" mean to you?
It's the thing I've based my life around for 28 years and continue to do so. It's a colossal part of me and anyone who knows me knows that. I seriously have sectioned the majority of my brain to retain music info and facts so I can recite festival line-ups in whatever given year, at the sacrifice of remembering my bank details.

What do you think is your greatest achievement in the field of music?
Still working on it, always the other / next goal. However, if picking one it would have to be that I am seeing a spark in my daughter's eye when she hears certain stuff, so that!

What is your greatest achievement outside of music?
The above. She's now 3 and really smart... and a good 'un.

Describe you most unusual / rabid fan.
Evile fans are all unusual, that's why we love 'em! Ha! Some more than others! The nervous fan I always struggle with. It's harder to answer questions when they are frantically thinking of their next question while you are responding to the previous one and you know whatever you are saying is not going in.

If you could invite any three people (living or dead) to a dinner party who would they be and why?
          Freddy Mercury, a personal hero of mine. I would love to find out his technique for writing - everything. I imagine his stories would be hilarious.
          Groucho Marx. I would love to know more about the early days of movies. I love his films and he still cracks me up every time I see him.
          And I really have to pick someone now without a large mustache, don't I?
          Drew Barrymore just because I've grown up with her on the screen since E.T. She always comes across as someone happy and sparkly. She seems fun.

What three things are on your "bucket list"?
          Go into space. I'd love to see the Earth from Space.
          Own a little boat and take friends out for beers in the ocean.
          Finally, own every bit of musical gear that's on my wish list.

If you could reduce everything you are and everything you stand for to one word, what would it be?
Potato

Squee Worthy! Savage Messiah confirmed for Hammerfest

2013-03-11T10:41:00.002-04:00

Happiness upon Happiness of days! Savage Messiah are confirmed to headline Hammerfest V on March 14th! Squeeeeeee Savage Messiah will make your ears bleed and your head bang on the VIP night from 2115 to 2220. Truly another great reason to head to Hammerfest!!!!
http://www.facebook.com/SavageMessiahMetal

Friday Night Dance Party - March Style

2013-03-08T10:29:00.000-05:00

Squeeeeee another Friday night rolls around and it rolls around in my favourite month of the year! March! March is my birthday month and the unofficial Irish American month. To celebrate all that’s Irish (me) and well, Me (me); I’m featuring my most favourite tunes for a Friday Night! Come party with the Kali Diaries!

Hate Squad – Pzyco!

Of course the first video is by Hate Squad! I’m over the moon that they are putting out a new disk April 19, 2013! You Are Not My Fuckin’ God (Best of 20 Years of Raging Hate). http://www.facebook.com/hatesquad

Ghost – Secular Haze

Ghost will be on tour throughout April and May of this year. This is definitely a band to see live. If you can’t make it to a show, don’t despair, the new album Infestissumam drops this spring. 'Secular Haze' is just a taste of what’s to come. http://tour.ghost-official.com/

Bonded By Blood - The Aftermath

Friday Night can’t be complete without some Bonded By Blood love! The Aftermath was one of the best albums of 2013 and Bonded spent scads of time on tour! Fast? Check. Aggressive? Check. In your face? Check. Here’s a video for 'Restless Minds'. Even Mauro acknowledges it’s a Friday Night! Squeeeee

http://www.facebook.com/officialbondedbyblood

As They Burn – When Everything Falls Apart

A wicked cool band from France that put together a wicked video for a track off their new album. http://metalasfuck.net/zine/reviews/2013/they-burn-will-love-life-victory-records Will, Love, and Life is a groovalicious album that should grace your turntable, eight track, tape deck and CD player.

Kiss The Gunner’s Daughter – Still Here

Everyone should be listening to this band. They’ve got hooks within hooks and grooves within grooves. Kiss The Gunner’s Daughter know how to rock it out! This is from 2012, but it’s such a great song! Check them out!

Summoned Tide - If We Fall We Rise

Another totally bitchin band from Sweden Summoned Tide has got grooves within grooves. The music is catchy as hell and the chorus is sing along worthy! Not to mention some sweet guitar playing Rickard and Mikael. They are worth checking out!
http://www.summonedtide.com

The Browning - Dominator

Simply because the Browning rule!! 'nuff said! http://www.facebook.com/TheBrowningOfficial

Bryan Carlstrom R.I.P.

2013-02-21T04:24:00.000-05:00

I was very fortunate to meet Bryan Carlstrom last year when he worked on the upcoming Relicseed album. He was kind and gracious. He had a great ear. He made the band sound even better then they did before. He had a gift! This donation page is for his wife and daughter. They are asking for donations to help with their medical expenses. Both have Lyme Disease. This sucks! Bryan gave so much to so many. If you have even one album he engineered your life is all the more rich. I'm sure many of you metal heads have dozens! If you can spare a tenner that would be groovy! Every little bit makes a HUGE difference!

Cheers!
Princess Vic

Bryan Carlstrom was a passionate and giving engineer, producer and musician, who touched so many lives with his wisdom, humor, love of music and mastery of recording. Unfortunately, Bryan left us far too soon on Saturday, Jan. 26^th, 2013.

He was a loving father to his daughter, Rachel, and devoted husband to his beautiful wife Kathy, and a die-hard music lover who never stopped giving to his friends, bands, family and his faith.

Bryan was torn between doing what he loved and being able to provide for this family. His wife and daughter both suffer from an advanced stage of Lyme disease. Their expensive treatment is not covered by health insurance. It is necessary& life saving medical treatment for both of them. He had No life insurance policy.

At this time, we are asking for your financial contribution for Bryan’s family. They need your help with past medical bills, funeral services, overall living expenses and future health care expenses as they recover and rebuild their lives after their devastating personal loss.

Kathy and Rachel really need your help!

Are you able to give $10? $50? $100?

There’s no amount too large or small, so please don’t be shy, hit that “donate now” button and make a difference!!

If you knew Bryan, please try to remember how much he affected your life, your faith, your performances, your dreams, your career, and your achievements. Or if you’re a music fan, Bryan was instrumental in recording artists such as Alice in Chains, The Offspring, Social Distortion, Armored Saint, Billy Idol, Anthrax, Biohazard, Filter, Rob Zombie, White Zombie, Billy Ray Cyrus, Dolly Parton and so many more!

http://www.bryancarlstrom.com/discography.html

If you’re a music lover like Bryan was, then chances are some of these recordings meant much more than money to you. It’s part of your DNA!!

Donate for Bryan.

Donate for Kathy and Rachel.

Do it because Bryan helped create music that was the soundtrack of your life!

With much love, gratitude and appreciation,

Annette Cisneros

Bryan's friend and business partner

Thank you to everyone who attended Bryan’s beautiful services, Bryan is smiling down on us all!

God Bless!

http://www.gofundme.com/23i4sg

Dave Lombardo - Fired from Slayer??!!

2013-02-21T03:51:00.000-05:00

In a move that I can only describe as shocking, Slayer have fired Dave Lombardo. Yes, I said fired; for that is what it comes down to. Dave posted on his facebook page on February 21, 2013 about the reasons why his band mates have decided to go on without him. I had to read it twice as their reasons were retarded. That's right. I said it. Retarded. This is 2013. Anyone with Google can find and make business plan. There are free courses on the subject. So why, any intelligent person would willfully allow an atrocious business plan where 90% of the income go to management is beyond me! And again, it being 2013, why a person is FIRED for asking for an independent audit of income, detailed expense reports, and a contract that was fair and balanced.... it makes me bristle!! Shame on you Slayer for continuing to work under a draconian contract. Shame on you for not "rocking the boat" and demanding an accounting of the money YOU worked so hard for. Shame on your for firing someone who had only the best interests of the collective in mind.

Statement From Dave Lombardo Regarding Slayer Australian Tour 2013

I want to personally apologize to all of our fans in Australia who have bought tickets for the tour expecting to see me in my usual place on the drums.

So that you all know the truth, as of the end of the business day on February 14th, I was notified that I would not be drumming for the tour in Australia. I’m saddened, and to be honest I am shocked by the situation.

Last year, I discovered 90% of Slayer’s tour income was being deducted as expenses including the professional fees paid to management, costing the band millions of dollars and leaving 10% or less to split amongst the four of us. In my opinion, this is not the way a band’s business should operate. I tried rectifying it by letting my band mates know, and Tom and I hired auditors to figure out what happened, but I was denied access to detailed information and the necessary back up documents.

I spent the Christmas and New Year holidays realizing I had toured all over the world in 2012, but yet, had not been paid (except a small advance) or provided a proper accounting for a full year's sweat and blood. On top of this, I was told that I would not be paid until I signed a long form contract which gave me no written assurance of how much or on what basis management would deduct commissions, nor did it provide me access to the financial budgets or records for review. It also forbade me to do interviews or make statements having to do with the band, in effect a gagging order.

Last Monday, I sat down with Kerry and Tom to rehearse for Australia and to propose a new business model that I felt was the best way forward for Slayer to confidently protect itself so we could do what we do best . . . play for the fans. Kerry made it clear he wasn’t interested in making changes and said if I wanted to argue the point, he would find another drummer. On Thursday, I arrived at rehearsals at 1 pm as scheduled, but Kerry did not show. Rather, at 6:24 pm I received an email from the lawyers saying I was being replaced for the Australian dates.

I remain hopeful that we can resolve our issues. But once again, I sincerely apologize to all of our fans in Australia who spent their money expecting to see the 3 of us original Slayer members.
I look forward to seeing you in the future.

Sincerely,
Dave Lombardo

Musing on Music - Mine Road

2013-02-15T14:11:00.000-05:00

A transcontinental adventure through music is the best way to describe Mine Road. The band calls Dublin, Ireland home, but they are from such mind bending places as Dublin, Sydney Australia and Jersey City... As in New Jersey! Hell, any band of note is from Jersey! Mine Road is a nice and steady rock and roll band. One would even describe the sound as fresh and stripped down. "The Door" has some sweet southern tinges to it. It doesn't distract from the truly heavy riffage courtesy of Stu Cash and Dave Flood. "The Door" reminds me of what was good about heavy metal and hard rock music back in the day. Ken Carthy has a strong voice that is easily understandable. No growly Cookie Monster vocals here. Just soulful and almost bluesy. "Nightmare" is another hook laden track. It's the perfect head to the local bar, drink some beer and shoot some pool song. It screams bell bottoms, bandanas, and bad ass motorcycles. "Too Late" kicks up that Southern Rock feel to 11. Stu and Dave are truly grooving and Steve Cash on drums is in the pocket for sure. The song sounds like the cool 90s hard rock songs that permeated the airwaves. "Too Late" is a catchy song and something you can easily sing along with. "California" also has that throwback to the 90s hard hitting heavy metal sound. Thirty seconds in you are bobbing your head along. Ken's vocals are choice here. "I've been searching for the meaning before I fall out into the night." The over all feel of "California" is really cool. The guitar tones and overall song structure are familiar. "California" sounds like a song you've heard before and really liked but just can't place it. You can get their debut EP on iTunes. Satellite is a groove laden romp through the rock and roll landscape.

http://www.facebook.com/mineroadband

System Annihilated - Furor (Discouraged Records)

2013-02-15T12:27:00.000-05:00

System Annihilated
Furor
February 18, 2013
Discouraged Records

It's really hard to believe that System Annihilated's album Furor is a debut album. The band hails from Sweden. Nuff Said. This is an album you should buy. It's only a half an hour long, but it'll be the best half hour of your day! I recommend you play it twice.

Furor starts off big. "This Apocalypse" is strong and heavy. It's full of awesome guitars and bitchin' riffage. Christoffer Jonsson's vocals are in your face. He is fierce. If killer guitars are what you're hankerin' for, look no further. Petter Adsten and Kalle Kjellberg are gobsmackingly amazing. They play with the viv and verve of musicians twice their age.

The title track, "Furor" is tight. Joel Widengren Llundstrom and Viktor Kroger are the rhythm section responsible for this wonderful feat of time keeping. Sure, all bands have a rhythm section, but it does take a certain skill to be this steady, regimented, and crisp. The song "Furor" is all of these things. The last thirty seconds of the song are squeeeee worthy!

"What We Created" is up next and it sounds like a brisk romp through the Swedish country side. If by brisk romp you are on a snowmobile with giant werewolf like creatures chasing after you with the intent of making you their dinner. This is another song where the drumming is just kick ass top notch.

"The Bitter End" starts of a bit creepy. It's the guitar sound. It has the big blockbuster sound of an action movie. About 70 seconds into the song, System Annihilated gets a bit jazzy and groovy on ya. There is a bit of the ol' grind. "The Bitter End" is a great headbanging song. This is also a great song to dance the Paso Doble to. System Annihilated are just that good! They write for both types of dance!

The rest of System Annihilated's album Furor is just as amazing. I'm totally in love with this album. It's got beats. It's got attitude. It's got complexity. You can dance to it!

You have to do two things...
ONE - go like them on Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/SystemAnnihilated
and
TWO - go buy the album!
http://www.discouragedrecords.com/shop/index.php?act=viewProd&productId=169