A Sound of Thunder | Time’s Arrow

by Jenn Carbaugh
- Columnist –

A Sound of Thunder has released Time’s Arrow, and this album proves to be, if possible, a fun heavy metal soundtrack. It is compelling and doesn’t have weak moments. Nina Osequeda is a powerhouse vocalist and gives women musicians a promising lead role. She has a range of styles within the album. The different emotions can be heard throughout compound notes.

Each track is equipped with decorating lead-ins. There are guitar solos and riffs by the plenty within this album. Every song has a superior sound. “Power Play” starts off the album, and it could have easily been the first single. It catches your attention immediately. “Queen of Hell” was the single for the EP release, and understandably, it was a great choice. There is an anthem-like nature within the intense lyrics. It brings back the fun edge to heavy metal instead of the assumed anger.

Not every song can be described as fist-in-the-air. “I’ll Walk With You” is a ballad that brings new life to typical love song style. The story within the song is captivating and fresh. It is indeed a love story, but the setting is a zombie apocalypse. It is more than enthralling. It is a lyrical illustration of the creativity that this band brings to the table.

A Sound of Thunder is a Washington D.C.-based band. They are obviously fronted by a female vocalist. If this band hasn’t made their way into your home or car, they need to be heard. This album is highly recommended for those who are interested in great metal without the same-old-same-old that is played on the radio.

Genre: Heavy Metal

Band:
Nina Osequeda – vocals
Josh Schwartz – guitar
Chris Haren- drums
Jesse Keen – bass

Track Listing:
01. Power Play
02. Time’s Arrow
03. I Will Not Break
04. Broken Bridge
05. Queen of Hell
06. Let’s Start A Fire
07. I’ll Walk With You
08. My Disease
09. Wastelands
10. End of the Road
11. Reign of The Hawklords

Label: Nightmare Records

Website: http://www.asoundofthunderband.com

Hardrock Haven Rating: 10/10

Patrick Hemer | More Than Meets the Eye

by Jenn Carbaugh
- Columnist –

More Than Meets the Eye is the perfect title for this album by Patrick Hemer, who is a well acclaimed studio musician and guitar instructor. His recognition is paired with the early 2000’s while he was the front man and worked the fret-boards of the German metal band Horizon. He recorded a few albums with them, but his recent album certainly projects him in the light of an intensely talented musician and a brilliant guitar player.

As the producer and the musician of More Than Meets the Eye, Hemer out does himself with the eclectic riffs and scales performed on this album. His soloing work on guitar plays well with his wide variation vocals. Altogether, he sings, plays the guitar, plays bass and keyboard, and contributes to the programming on the album.

The beautiful sound that comes from Hemer’s Jackson guitar and with DiMarzio pickups is something comparable to a symphony of rock for this one man show. The album not only features Hemer’s lyrics and clean voice, but there are strictly instrumental tracks as well. “Firelight” and “Terra Incognita” are full instrumental and really expose the ability that Hemer puts behind his work.

This album, like the style of Hemer, shows a lofty amount of promising notions. There are quick paced tracks like “Thorn in my Flesh.” There are also ballad type songs like “For All Eternity.” This album really belongs to Hemer, and it’s definitely one he should be proud of. For a man who does it all, there was a lot of metal greatness achieved within these compositions.

Genre: Progressive Metal

Band:
Patrick Hemer – vocals, guitar, bass, keyboard, programming
David Casanova – keyboards
Tom Wagner – drums and percussion

Track Listing:
01. Up From the Ashes
02. Thorn In My Flesh
03. Edge of Insanity
04. For All Eternity
05. Firelight
06. The Godfather
07. Panem Et Circenses
08. Legend In Your Own Mind
09. Death On Two Legs
10. Guilty
11. Terra Incognita

Label: Nightmare Records

Website: www.patrickhemer.com

Hardrock Haven rating: 6/10

Tellus Requiem | Invictus (The 11th Hour)

by Sherry Thomas
- Columnist –

Tellus Requiem is the name of an upcoming band in Progressive music. The Norwegian band was formed in 2007 by guitarist Stig Nergård. In 2010, Tellus Requiem released their self-titled album digitally. This caught the attention of many and procured them a supporting act slot for the likes of Pagan’s Mind, Edenbridge and several others. The band has undergone some personnel changes since its inception, but the current lineup is the most ambitious and musically diverse. Tellus Requiem is comprised of Ben Rodgers (vocals), Vidar Lehmann (drums), Stig Nergård (guitars), Ivar Hagen Bøe (bass) and Anders Sundbø (keyboards).

Invictus (The 11th Hour), released by Nightmare Records, can easily be described as the love-child of Symphony X and Richard Wagner. The main theme of Invictus (The 11th Hour) touches upon worlds shattering to pieces, either personally or globally. The band’s biography states Tellus Requiem means the earth’s death mass. Tellus meaning Latin for Earth and Requiem being the final piece of a composer writes before they pass away. The 10 tracks are mainly Progressive Metal with hints of classical, film and Eastern Folk music. Invictus (The 11th Hour) was mixed and mastered by Tommy Hansen (TNT, Helloween) and features cover art from Thomas Ewerhard (Tango Down, Circle II Circle).

Tellus Requiem takes the listener on a musical journey from start to finish with their unique style that takes Progressive Metal to a new level. The first track, “Ab Aeterno,” is the shortest in length on the album, but it’s also one of the strongest. The instrumental leads into the vocally powerful “Red Horizon” and “Eden Burns.” Up next is the eight minute epic “Reflections Remain.” The song combines everything from a classical piano introduction to dark lyrics that foreshadow the ending.

“Twilight Hour” and “Sands Of Gold” follow suit with melodic vocals, hard driving guitars by way of Nergård and the intricate keyboard playing from Sundbø. The seventh track, “Tranquility” is a beautiful masterpiece and showcases the band’s fluidity. Next up is “Redemption” which has a bit of jazz influence before it assaults you with powerful guitar riffs and solid rhythm work via Lehmann and Bøe. “Invictus” starts out with a drawn out melody, but finds its way back to becoming an epic song at the two minute mark. Finally, “Dies Irae” ties everything up into a piece that is dark, melodic and somber in a way. It captures the meaning of the album without stuffing it down your throat.

All in all, Invictus (The 11th Hour) is well worth your time if you enjoy the likes of Dream Theater and Symphony X. Tellus Requiem adds their own spin, which will provide them the opportunity to gain respect among progressive metal fans and community.

Genre: Progressive Metal

Band:
Ben Rodgers – Vocals
Vidar Lehmann – Drums
Stig Nergård – Guitars
Ivar Hagen Bøe – Bass
Anders Sundbø – Keyboards

Track Listing:
1. Ab Aeterno
2. Red Horizon
3. Eden Burns
4. Reflections Remain
5. Twilight Hour
6. Sands Of Gold
7. Tranquility
8. Redemption
9. Invictus
10. Dies Irae

Label: Nightmare Records

Web: http://www.tellusrequiem.com

Hardrock Haven Rating: 8.5/10

Scelerata | The Sniper

by Sherry Thomas
- Columnist –

Scelerata is a Heavy Metal band that formed in Brazil more than 10 years ago. The band had a great history, including many shows, major tours and two albums released worldwide. However, the band is a relative newcomer to the North American Heavy Metal scene. The Sniper is the quintet’s third full-length album with new vocalist Fabio Juan, along with the blazing guitar duo of Magnus Wichmann and Renato Osorio, bassist Gustavo Strapazon and drummer Francis Cassol.

The Sniper was produced by Charlie Bauerfeind (Helloween, Motörhead, Halford) and the band’s guitarist Renato Osorio and was recorded at Twilight Hall Studio in Germany, which is owned by Blind Guardian. The Sniper was released in June 2012 to the Asian market, arrived in Brazil in July 2012 and Nov. 16, 2012, to the rest of us via Nightmare Records. Scelerata delivers a heavier and more aggressive sound, mixed with the prog and melodic elements they are known for and are found in the band’s previous albums Darkness & Light and Skeletons Domination. The 11-track album is more mature, with lyrics that address a sad issue most countries have to deal with: Corruption in politics. The album also features better production and musicianship.

To top it all off, The Sniper features Andi Deris (Helloween) and Paul Di’Anno (Iron Maiden) as special-guest vocalists and co-writers on several tracks. In late 2008, Scelerata was chosen by Di’Anno to be his backing band during his Brazilian tours in 2009 and 2010.

“Rising Sun” and “In My Blood” lead off Scelerata’s metal assault, featuring Di’Anno as guest vocalist on both tracks. The Sniper continues to showcase the band’s progressive edge and the huge new vocal talent found in Fabio Juan with the powerful “Road Of Death” and “Breaking The Chains,” a song that pays a glimmer of familiarity in the beginning and ending with the Dokken tune of the same name. “Unmasking Lies” features the amazing technical workings of Wichmann and Osorio. “Must Be Dreaming” (featuring Andi Deris) follows, and it shows off the band’s progressive edge. “Drowned in Madness,” “Welcome Home,” “Til The Day We Die,” “Money Painted Red” continue Scelerata’s power metal fury. The final song on The Sniper is the title track, a nine-minute opus that keeps you wanting more.

It is safe to say that Scelerata will be turning heads in 2013 and beyond if the band keeps the momentum going. If you are a fan of Edguy or Angra, The Sniper is an absolute must.

Genre: Heavy Metal

Band:
Fabio Juan – Vocals
Magnus Wichmann – Guitars
Renato Osorio – Guitars
Gustavo Strapazon – Bass
Francis Cassol – Drums

Track Listing:
1. Rising Sun (featuring Paul Di’Anno)
2. In My Blood (featuring Paul Di’Anno)
3. Road Of Death
4. Breaking The Chains
5. Unmasking Lies
6. Must Be Dreaming (featuring Andi Deris)
7. Drowned in Madness
8. Welcome Home
9. ‘Til The Day We Die
10. Money Painted Red
11. The Sniper

Label: Nightmare Records

Web: www.scelerata.com / www.facebook.com/ScelerataOfficial / www.twitter.com/scelerata

Video:
“Rising Sun”

Hardrock Haven rating: 9/10

Seven Kingdoms | The Fire Is Mine

by Sherry Thomas
- Columnist –

Seven Kingdoms’ third offering (the second with powerhouse vocalist Sabrina Valentine), The Fire Is Mine, delivers pure heat from start to finish. The album, which was released on Nightmare Records, shows that the band is going in the right direction. Quite possibly, The Fire Is Mine has ignited something within the band because Seven Kingdoms can play with the heavy hitters in the metal community without any problems and could become “King Of The Hill.”

In May 2012, the quintet entered Morrisound Studios with legendary producer Jim Morris (Iced Earth, Jag Panzer, Wicked Maraya, Obituary) at the helm and created the 11-track melodic power thrash opus. The musicianship of Valentine, guitarists Camden Cruz and Kevin Byrd, bassist Aaron Sluss and drummer Keith Byrd clearly has matured.

Although they call sunny, warm Florida home, the first track “Beyond The Wall” emerges the listener into a frozen tundra. The haunting instrumental launches full force into “After The Fall” and maintains their grip with “Forever Brave,” “Flame Of Olympus,” “Symphony Of Stars” and title track “The Fire Is Mine.” Cruz and Byrd prove to be an axe-slinging duo to be reckoned with, teamed up with the powerful rhythm section of Sluss and Byrd. With “Kardia,” Seven Kingdoms delivers a beautiful song that showcases Valentine’s crystalline vocals, teamed up with guest vocalist Matt Smith of Theocracy.

Seven Kingdoms leaps back into the heaviness with “Fragile Minds Collapse” and “In The Twisted Twilight.” “A Debt Paid In Steel” is very reminiscent of dialogue that would come from a “Games Of Thrones” novel. “The King In The North” gives a proper triumphant ending to The Fire Is Mine and is highly recommended for fans of melodic, power metal.

Seven Kingdoms has secured an opening slot on Stratovarius and Amaranthe’s 2013 European Tour, which launches March 2013, and they are slated to appear during the three-day Rock Harvest II Festival in November, with the likes of DC4, London, Mitch Malloy, FarCry and many others. They will be opening and headlining many of their own shows within the coming weeks and months.

Seven Kingdoms is a must for your music library and might even supersede bands they have been compared to in the past.

Genre: Power Metal

Band:
Sabrina Valentine- lead vocals
Camden Cruz- guitar, vocals
Kevin Byrd-guitar, vocals
Keith Byrd- drums
Aaron Sluss-bass

Track Listing:
1. Beyond The Wall
2. After The Fall
3. Forever Brave
4. Flame Of Olympus
5. Symphony Of Stars
6. The Fire Is Mine
7. Kardia
8. Fragile Minds Collapse
9. In The Twisted Twilight
10. A Debt Paid In Steel
11. The King In The North

Label: Nightmare Records

Web: www.facebook.com/SevenKingdomsOfficial / www.twitter.com/SevenKingdoms1

Video: “After The Fall” http://youtu.be/Hpa6f6s23PE

Hardrock Haven rating: 9/10

Vangough | Kingdom Of Ruin

by Joe Mis
Staff Writer –

Vangough’s brand of metal music is as impressionistic as the art of the master painter who inspired their name. The Oklahoma City based quartet blends elements of progressive metal and straight up guitar rock with touches of gothic metal to come up with a rather unique and energetic sound. Influences from bands as diverse as Dream Theater, 3, Linken Park and even Genesis can be heard throughout their latest release entitled Kingdom Of Ruin, but this not a copy or sound alike band. Vangough blazes their own trail.

Big on hooks and melody, Vangough is led by vocalist/guitarist/keyboardist Clay Withrow. He has a solid voice and delivers the lyrics with passion and energy whether singing softly or dropping to an almost death metal growl. His range is decent, and he pushes his vocal envelope at select times when needed for dramatic effect. His passion and intensity easily overcome any vocal weaknesses, and his energy seems boundless. Withrow is also a good guitarist, equally comfortable with sweeping acoustic passages or heavy chugging rhythm lines. The band behind Withrow is equally talented – drummer Brandon Lopez, keyboardist Corey Mast and bassist Jeren Martin can match Withrow note for note and handle the divergent musical styles on Kingdom Of Ruin with missing a proverbial beat. As a unit, Vangough seems comfortable at all paces and tempos and they deliver polished sound with a bit of an old school tone and warmth.

Kingdom Of Ruin (the band’s third release) is a true concept album, telling a complete story loosely based on the old Alice in Wonderland tales, or perhaps The Secret of NIMH or Watership Down. Whatever the mythological source, Kingdom Of Ruin is the story of a man who has crossed from the human world into The Rabbit Kingdom where he is heir to the throne. The metaphorical lyrics lead the listener through his thoughts as he makes his choice whether to remain or return to his human existence, and of his roles in both worlds.

Without giving away the ending, here are some musical highlights: The dual nature of the whole album, with the first half being darker and heavier, and the back half lighter and more upbeat; the sweeping riffs, manic drum line and overall theatrical feel of “Disloyal;” the many musical moods and great vocals of “Choke Faint Drown;” the cool Linken Park feel and sweet guitar solo of “Abandon Me;” the heavy Gothic mood, complex layering and superb performances by the entire band on “Kingdom Of Ruin;” the upbeat progressive rock stylings and long instrumental passages of “The Rabbit Kingdom;” the fine guitar and keyboard work on the lighthearted “Sounds of Wonder” – the listener may pick up a touch of Queen influence here; the beautiful and melodic piano / synth work and tearjerker lyrics of “A Father’s Love” and “Alice” the awesome in-your-face bass line of “Requiem For A Fallen King;” and the entire epic closing track – “The Garden That Time Forgot.”

Overall, Vangough’s Kingdom Of Ruin is a very good listen. The musicianship is excellent, the story well-presented, creative and thought provoking, and the performance enthusiastic. The recording and mixing is solid, creating a crisp and clean modern sound while allowing a natural warmth to shine through rather than sounding cold or sterile. Despite a few moments when some of the tracks seem to drag on a bit longer than they should, Vangough’s latest can stand as a benchmark in the progressive rock arena. It should appeal to most Prog fans. One word of warning – you must be prepared to listen to the album as a whole since it does tell a complete story. Taking the complex tracks out of sequence or listening to them as single songs will leave the listener wondering about the meaning of the lyrics.

Highly recommended!

Genre: Progressive Rock

Band:
Clay Withrow (vocals, guitars, bass, keyboards)
Brandon Lopez (drums)
Corey Mast (keyboards)
Jeren Martin (bass)
Guest Musician: Ken Wood (Irish whistle, piano)

Track Listing:
1. Disloyal
2. Choke Faint Drown
3. Abandon Me
4. Drained
5. Kingdom Of Ruin
6. Frailty
7. The Transformation
8. The Rabbit Kingdom
9. Stay
10. Sounds Of Wonder
11. A Father’s Love
12. Requiem For A Fallen King
13. An Empire Shattered
14. Alice
15. The Garden Time Forgot

Label: Nightmare Records

Website: http://www.officialvangough.com/band.html

Hardrock Haven rating: 8/10

Divine Ascension | As The Truth Appears

by Joe Mis
Staff Writer

The old cliché “Thunder From Down Under” has been used and misused many times, but applying it to Australia’s Divine Ascension is appropriate. As The Truth Appears is the dynamic debut from the Aussie group and is a thunderous mix of progressive metal, power metal and orchestral metal delivered with conviction and enthusiasm.

Fronted by the powerful voice of the theatrically trained Jennifer Borg, Divine Ascension pulls no punches and delivers a strong and vital mix of metal. The album is well engineered and brings out the best of not only the lead vocals, but also the backings vocals and instruments. Well crafted songs dealing with the nature of good and evil are DA’s trademark – and the fine lyrics are backed up by tight and spirited performances. The guitar duo of Karl Szulik and Robert Inglis is impressive, and they play off of each other very well. Both are fine lead and rhythm players and capable of dealing with the most complex of riffs. David Van Pelt is a great keyboard player and complements the guitars well without dominating the sound. Simon Mahoney (bass) and Luke Wenczel (drums) are a solid rhythm section whether dishing out subtle and complex patterns or galloping on at breakneck speeds.

“Answers” kicks the album off on a high note, and is filled with great vocal performances and great guitar work. This intense track has all the requisite tempo changes and keyboard riffs of progressive metal, along with a big double bass drum line and some classical influences. Blistering guitar riffs and a great rhythm line make “The Visionary” a great prog metal track. “In My Mind” is built around Borg’s voice and Wenczel’s drums. “Vision Divine” is the band’s showpiece, rich in orchestral elements and easily the best track on the release. “Guided By Osiris” brings a bit of Middle Eastern flair, more prominent keyboards and very hot solos to the fore.

An epic opening passage gets the angry and energetic “One Last Caress” off to a rollicking start. This is a musically complex and multi-layered track – technical and fascinating. Impressive bass and a slick vocal line highlight “Garden Of Evil,” while a very progressive rhythm line drives “Another Battlefield.” The latter track allows Borg to explore the higher ranges of her voice, and the band seems to have a good deal of fun playing. The moody “Civilization” features an aggressive and choppy rhythm line that contrasts nicely with slower vocal track and low key piano. The album wraps strongly with a very proggy and orchestral “Unscathed.”

As The Truth Appears is a fine debut. Unlike many other female-fronted metal acts, Divine Ascension doesn’t use Jennifer Borg as a gimmick. Her talent is obvious, as is the talent of the balance of the group. She is an integral part of the band – far more than a crutch. There is nothing simple about DA’s music – every track is rich with complex melodies and contrasting tempos in layer upon layer of music and voices. Even though there is nothing truly revolutionary or groundbreaking here, Divine Ascension has put out one of the better releases of 2011 – a fine debut that will leave the listener looking forward to the next.

As The Truth Appears should appeal to fans of power metal, progressive metal, orchestral metal or female-fronted metal. Divine Ascension is definitely a band to watch. Highly recommended.

Genre: Progressive Metal

Band:
Jennifer Borg – Vocals
Karl Szulik – Guitars
Robert Inglis – Guitars
David Van Pelt – Keyboards
Simon Mahoney – Bass
Luke Wenczel – Drums

Track Listing:
1. Answers
2. Visionary
3. In My Mind
4. Vision Divine
5. Guided By Osiris
6. One Last Caress
7. Garden of Evil
8. Another Battlefield
9. Civilization
10. Unscathed

Label: Nightmare Records

Website: http://www.divine-ascension.com/

Hardrock Haven rating: 8.5/10

Anubis Gate | Anubis Gate

by Franco Cerchiari
Staff Writer

As painful as it is to admit, progressive metal bands like Cynthesis, Creation’s End, Hourglass, Myrath and Anubis Gate —  until American radio gets its act together — will never be heard to a wider audience. But, be that as it may, as long as Anubis Gate continues to release one standout release after another, fans can be left satisfied.

Anubis Gate’s self titled fifth studio album, and the first since 2009’s The Detached, is a simply superb blend of majestic pomp, progressive metal, guitar hooks, luxuriant keyboards, dazzling melodic vocal harmonies, hammering drums and whipping bass lines. With an easy comparison to Vanden Plas and Darkwater, the tracks flow and the overall sound is simply stunning. From the opening bars sound is everywhere and quickly the ears are filled with one perfect track after the next. So hard not to reach for the volume knob, the listener is lost in a sea of progressive metal that only gets better as the CD goes through its playing time.

Listen to the power guitar chords of the CD’s opener “Hold Back Tomorrow,” the evil, sinful sounding “The Re-Formation Show,” and the CD highlight, building in sound, instruments all adding additional layers culminating with harmonic vocals during the choruses soaring heavenward is “Facing Dawn.”

Keeping the listener transfixed as well are the percussion sounds, as well as the blisteringly fast double bass drums of “World in a Dome,” the guitars of “Golden Days,” and the all-out metal “Desderio Omnibus.” The head nodding “Oh My Precious Life,” with its lyrics talking about wasting time and the foolish decisions of a young man, is a thinking man’s track, where it pays for one to close their eyes and pay attention to the message.

Fooling the listener that here is a ballad, “River,” is soft at first, but the sound and feel escalates in intensity quickly builds as the drums literally pound, until at: 45 seconds, that feeling is shot to all hell, for smacking the crap out of the speakers is a loud, grand, pompous track with a wicked undertone, until midway through, the feel lightens up, and almost in the fashion of prog rock bands of yesteryear (with still the feel of today’s metal), the track closes with synthesizers galore. “River” is perfectly done, with the feelings of the songwriter coming through in droves.

Sadly, “Telltale Eyes,” seemed rushed, but even having said that, it was a track that showcased the talents of the band members.

What makes a great progressive metal CD is when the overall feel of the completed CD grows in strength from the opening bars to the closing track. Anubis Gate does it perfectly here. The heart of the listener begins to swell as the CD starts, and by the time the CD ends, it is all one can do to not feel completely drained by the emotion, sensation and awareness of the music itself. For a lack of better words, the music heard on Anubis Gate is overpowering — it makes one feel lost in the storylines, the lyrics and the sentiment coming through from the music itself. So as the CD comes to close one is left in a whirlwind and it takes a moment or two to wind down. And when that happens, the listener knows for a certainty that what was heard is a collection of music that has totally encapsulated what progressive metal is –- full of sound, emotions and the tracks played to their fullest.

Anubis Gate has come up with one of the best CDs thus far of 2011.

Genre: Progressive Power Metal

Band Members:
Henrik Fevre – vocals, bass
Jesper Jensen – guitars
Kim Olesen – guitars, keyboards
Morten Sorensen – drums

Track Listing:
Hold Back Tomorrow
The Re-Formation Show
Facing Dawn
World in a Dome
Desderio Omnibus
Oh My Precious Life
Golden Days
Telltale Eyes
River
Circumstanced

Label: Nightmare Records

Hardrock Haven rating: 9.5/10

Myrath | Tales of the Sands

by Justin Gaines
Staff Writer

The Middle East is not what you would typically consider a hotbed for heavy metal, but in recent years a handful of very impressive bands from that area have broken through, putting a regional spin on the progressive metal sound. Innovative Israeli bands Orphaned Land and Melechesh are probably the best known, but Tunisian progressive/power metal band Myrath (which is Tunisian for “Legend”) is quickly proving to be worthy of joining their ranks. Their 2010 album Desert Call was very well-received, and now the band is back with a follow-up, titled Tales of the Sands.

Myrath plays progressive metal, but not quite at the same level of complexity as Orphaned Land. The band retains the high level of musicianship and sense of bombast and grandeur, but takes a more melodic, more accessible approach that’s similar to bands like Symphony X and Kamelot. Actually, Tales of the Sands could pass as Kamelot’s unreleased follow-up to Karma. They hit that sweet spot between progressive and power metal, and the incorporation of regional instrumentation and Arabic language elements is just what was needed to push Myrath’s sound above the very crowded prog/power pack. Of course it helps to have a guitar player of Malek Ben Arbia’s caliber who can masterfully weave intricate riffing and mesmerizing melodies, and a vocalist like Zaher Zorgatti with a great midrange voice that conveys plenty of power and drama. Then there’s the way Elyes Bouchoucha’s melodic keyboard work plays off of Anis Jouini and Piwee Desfray’s rhythms. Top it off with a first rate mixing and mastering job (courtesy of Frederik Nordstrom and Jens Bogren, respectively) and you have all the necessary ingredients for a successful album.

Of course, all the talent and professional finishing in the world can’t make up for a lack of songwriting skills. Fortunately Myrath is hardly lacking in that department. Tales of the Sands is a remarkably strong album start to finish, working just as effectively as a group of individual songs as it does as a more cohesive whole. Opener “Under Siege” sets the tone for the rest of the album perfectly, hinting at the range of styles to come. “Merciless Times” showcases the band’s use of their native musical elements, as does the powerful title track with its haunting Arabic passages. Closing song “Time to Grow” is another highlight, thanks to some truly powerful vocals, and the bonus track “Apostrophe for a Legend” may be the album’s most accessible song.

Tales of the Sands is another strong showing from Myrath, and is an album that should not only please the band’s existing fans but also win over fans of “top tier” bands like Kamelot, Evergrey, Vanden Plas and Symphony X. With any luck, this will be the breakthrough album that brings Myrath the attention their music very much deserves.

Genre: Progressive Power Metal

Band:
Anis Jouini (b)
Malek Ben Arbia (g)
Elyes Bouchoucha (k) (v)
Zaher Zorgatti (v)
Piwee Desfray (d)

Track Listing:
1. Under Siege
2. Braving the Seas
3. Merciless Times
4. Tales of the Sands
5. Sour Sigh
6. Dawn Within
7. Wide Shut
8. Requiem for a Goodbye
9. Beyond the Stars
10. Time to Grow
11. Apostrophe for a Legend (bonus track)

Label: Nightmare Records

Website: www.myrath.com

Hardrock Haven rating: 8.75/10

Mark Mitchell of Tetrafusion

by Derric Miller
Staff Writer

Tetrafusion bassist Mark Mitchell checked in with Hardrock Haven to announce the upcoming recording of their third studio album; why they added vocals on their sophomore effort Altered State when their original release was an instrumental; the running narrative through Altered State on songs like “Monologue” and “Deserter;” the making of the video for “Monologue;” why they won’t be touring this summer but have big plans once the new album is recorded in August; and a lot more.

If you haven’t heard Tetrafusion yet, they are a technically expert progressive rock/metal band that also write accessible and poignant songs. They don’t sound like anyone else out there right now. Tune in now to get to know their bassist Mark Mitchell, and pick up Altered State immediately thereafter.

(If the embedded player doesn’t populate, click here to stream the interview in a stand alone player.)

Alberto Rigoni : Rebirth

by Joe Mis
Staff Writer

If you’re tired of the screaming, growling and moaning out in the current metal scene and want to listen to real music, then the latest release from well-respected bass player Alberto Rigoni, entitled Rebirth, may be just the ticket.

Alberto Rigoni may be a new name for some, but he has been a vital part of the music scene for a while. Best know as the bass player for the progressive metal band Twinspirits he has garnered much praise for his fresh and unique style.

A native of Montebelluna, Italy, Rigoni started playing with Ascra, a progressive-metal cover band. He joined Twinspirits in 2003, and worked on some solo material as well, releasing his debut album Something Different in 2008. Not content with just solo works and Twinspirits, Rigoni made guest appearances on a number of other albums, and formed the pop-electro-experimental project called Lady & The Bass with Italian singer Irene Ermolli. In 2010 the prolific bassist began work on Rebirth and gathered a number of top notch talent to assist, including Gavin Harrison (Porcupine Tree), John Macaluso (Ark, Yngwie Malmsteen), vocalist Jonas Erixon (Alicate), guitarists Tommy Ermolli (Twinspirits) and Simone Mularoni (DGM, Empyrios), keyboardists Federico Solazzo (Alexia), Andrea Pavanello (Centrica), Filippo Lui and Emanuele Casali (DGM, Astra).

Rigoni’s latest solo effort is a fine one. Rebirth is a mix of many genres, everything from moody, almost ambient progressive rock instrumentals to melodic metal vocal tracks. Not just a exposition of fine bass playing, Rebirth is 9 tracks of solid music, mostly tending towards progressive rock with a metal edge. Nicely balanced and engineered to emphasize the bass, Rigoni manages to dazzle the listener without making a “bass guitar” album.

The album starts on a high with the bouncy and progressive rocker “Free,” while “Rebirth” is a melodic bass masterpiece with many classical influences. In today’s music most bass players simply pound out rhythms lines, but Rigoni fully PLAYS the instrument to its full potential. “Story of a Man” continues on the softer rock side while adding jazz influences, and features some very intricate drum work backing up the elegant bass line that builds in intensity as the song evolves. “The Net” is an atmospheric, almost ambient rock piece that leads into the straight up rocker “Emptiness.” This track is the first appearance of fine Swedish singer Jonas Erixon, and proves that Rigoni can slot his impressive chops into a vocal piece without dominating the music or distracting the listener.

“A New Soul” sounds almost new-age with a touch of the Dixie Dregs rolled in for good measure. This track fully displays Rigoni’s ability to convey true emotion with the bass – not an easy task. “With All My Forces” is metal, pure and simple. Great bass, intense guitars, solid vocals and fine drums make this track a winner. Intricate proggie bass drives “Ontogeny,” and a new-age lightness and great keyboards fill the final track, “White Shine.”

Bassists everywhere could learn a thing or two from Rigoni, not just as players but as songwriters. Alberto’s diverse influences and styles show him to be a complete musician and an outstanding performer, delivering everything from simple rhythms to complex runs while never neglecting the melodic elements or breaking from traditional song structures. He play with his heart, emotionally and expressively.

If you play bass, don’t let Alberto Rigoni’s Rebirth pass you by. If you simply like good modern rock, get it. If you enjoy music for music’s sake then you can’t do much better than this. Rebirth is modern melodic rock at its finest.

Genre: Progressive Rock

Band:
Alberto Rigoni (bass)
Yves Carbonne (bass on 2, 3)
Michael Manring (bass on 3, 6)
Gavin Harrison (drums on 1, 5, 7)
John Macaluso (drums on 3, 8 )
Jonas Erixon (vocals on 5, 7)
Tommy Ermolli (guitars on 1, 5)
Simone Mularoni (guitars on 7)
Federico Solazzo (keyboards on 1, 2, 9)
Filippo Lui (keyboards on 5)
Emanuele Casali (keyboards on 7)
Andrea Pavanello (keyboards on 8 )

Track Listing:
1. Free
2. Rebirth
3. Story Of A Man
4. The Net
5. Emptiness
6. A New Soul
7. With All My Forces
8. Ontogeny
9. White Shine

Label: Nightmare Records

Website: http://www.albertorigoni.net/

Hardrock Haven rating: 9/10

Gordon Tittsworth of Images of Eden

by Derric Miller
Staff Writer

Images of Eden singer Gordon Tittsworth checked in with Hardrock Haven to talk about their incredible new release Rebuilding the Ruins; their exclusive world premiere of the track “Crosses in the Sand” on Hardrock Haven; upcoming tour plans; the story behind tracks like “Rebuilding the Ruins” and “Sunlight of the Spirit;” and a whole lot more.

If you are into thought-provoking and expert Progressive Metal, Images of Eden is one of those bands you need to be paying attention to. Tune in now to get to know the band, check out the exclusive world premiere of “Crosses in the Sand,” and pick up Rebuilding the Ruins today.

Online: www.imagesofeden.com

(If the embedded player doesn’t populate, click here to stream the interview in a stand alone player.)

Images of Eden Rebuilding the Ruins

by Derric Miller
Staff Writer

One of the most thought-provoking groups making music today is Progressive Metal band Images of Eden, who has just released their third studio effort, Rebuilding the Ruins. Led by singer/musician/songwriter Gordon Tittsworth (Dread the Forsaken, All Too Human), the prior two releases were extremely existential in their capacity to ask the questions “why are we here, and what are we here for?” Rebuilding the Ruins takes it a step further, and brings cosmic spirituality to the forefront as the protagonist of the story rebuilds his life and attempts to make sense of his very existence … and the eternal.

“Crosses in the Sand” begins the journey with a soft keyboard intro, ambient background noises with the cry of gulls, and then the music bludgeons you with a heavy, downtuned and aggressive gallop before leading into a soaring guitar passage. The lyrics are somewhat obscure, with lines like “All for one, for nothing, you are not to blame. It never saw the world… there was never life to hate,” or the frantic ending of the song where Tittsworth sings, “If God’s so forgiving, then he would understand, sometimes a ‘choice’ is better to be made.” You will have to dig deep into your mental repertoire to bring the meaning to light here, but it could be a dissection of the discussion “when does life truly begin,” and if you bring someone into this world who is the result of traumatic violence or something darker … well … there may be nothing worse than entering this physical existence under those parameters. In essence, the band used the word “choice” for a reason.

The music seethes at the start of “Human Angels,” one of those complex compositions Images of Eden excels at. Instead, the song becomes a bit of a mid-tempo rocker with expert drum fills and Tittsworth’s honest and emotional delivery. In the past, Tittsworth sometimes sounded close to Bruce Dickinson at times, and he still wields a powerful, multi-faceted delivery, but has come into his own as a singer and sounds like no one else today. With all of the projects Tittsworth is involved with, and all of the experience under his belt, he is hitting his stride as a singer and his expertise will move you.

The title track, “Rebuilding the Ruins,” is perhaps the best song on the release. Its angry beginning, sounding a bit like the unheralded but amazing band Digital Ruin, pulls you in to the theme of the track. A band needs to take chances to succeed, and writing lyrics seemingly spoken by Jesus Chris, like “Tell me who will wear my crown of thorns today … I’m not sorry for dying,” is certainly risky. In fact, the end of the song, as Tittsworth sings “What once were ruins are again towers standing tall, rebirth for the ones who deserve,” it certainly seems like a call for The Rapture, and therefore, to “leave behind” those who don’t deserve rebirth.

One of the most uplifting songs is “On Elevated Ground,” a composition that is somewhat contrary to the religious themes before it. As stated earlier, where there was a call for The Rapture, in this track, it seems that everyone is invited to the Eternal Party, especially with the line “Where love will be all and love will end all.” Themes aside, the vocal melodies do their part of being “otherworldly,” with strong backing vocals and Tittsworth’s omnipresent masterful singing. As the song has two minutes left, you will almost get a ‘70s hippy vibe from the vocals and music. Like most Progressive Metal bands, Images of Eden plays everything from Thrash to Pop Rock — sometimes in the same track — and excels at it all. After this soft passage, guitarist Dennis Mullin tears into an intricate guitar solo that completely rages to the track’s end.

You need to be careful when listening to “Images of Eden (Sunlight of the Spirit Part IV),” because if you take what they write in the literal, you will think they are a Christian Metal band. In brief, Images of Eden is NOT a Christian Metal band. Musically, the composition breathes so artfully, there is so much to digest as the song flows through you, that it is, in a word … enchanting. One of the strongest lyrics on the entire album pop up here with the phrase, “Today God is playing God.” The song gains intensity as the protagonist prepares to leave corporeal life behind and entire into the Kingdom of Heaven, as Tittsworth and a mammoth chorus sing together, “Kingdom of Forever, I’m coming home.”

It’s not only the music and lyrics that make Rebuilding the Ruins so engaging, but also the mixing efforts of drummer Chris Lucci and the mastering of Eric Zimmerman (Fates Warning, Limp Bizkit, Deftones, Buckcherry, Suicidal Tendencies, etc.), all culminating in the album’s spectacular sonic landscape.

Rebuilding the Ruins goes far into announcing Images of Eden as one of those bands to be reckoned with in the Progressive Metal genre. From deft songwriting to stellar musicianship to top notch production, Rebuilding the Ruins is a force. That being said, it’s a walk on the tightrope to produce positive metal that does not alienate those listeners who are agnostic, atheist, or generally apathetic towards Christianity and religion. In the end, Images of Eden does just that, maneuvering the fine line between telling a story and preaching that story to you. The imagery, the passion, the understated and overstated themes … it all comes together to make Rebulding the Ruins one of the most unique releases you will be fortunate enough to hear all year long …

Band:
Gordon Tittsworth- All Vocals, Rhythm Guitar, Bass Guitar & Keyboards
Dennis Mullin- Lead Guitar
Chris Lucci – Drums
Dean Harris – Piano & Keyboards

Track listing:
1) Crosses In The Sand
2) Human Angels
3) Sorrow’s End
4) Dreams Unbroken
5) Tribal Scars
6) Rebuilding The Ruins
7) My Stigmata
8  Native To His Land
9) Children of Autumn
10) On Elevated Ground
11) Images of Eden (Sunlight of the Spirit- Part IV)

Label: Nightmare Records

Genre: Progressive Metal

Online: www.imagesofeden.com  

Hardrock Haven rating: 8.3/10

Clandestine The Invalid

by Joe Mis
Staff Writer

If you are looking for something just a little bit different, check out the LA-based underground prog metal quartet called Clandestine. Slated to release their first full length CD in mid-February, Clandestine seems poised to make the leap from local to national prominence.

The Invalid is the follow up to Clandestine’s 2006 debut EP and was produced by Sylvia Massy (System Of A Down, Tool). Blending elements from progressive rock, metal, pop, underground and electronica, Clandestine brings their own unique style to the world of female-fronted rock – refreshingly NOT trying to sound like Paramore. Heavy keyboards and synths share the stage with grinding guitars and big rhythm lines while supporting solid melodic vocals and decent songwriting.

June Park fronts Clandestine, proving herself to be a talented singer and good symth player. Park has a clear, soft and sweet voice and a good range. She is not operatic and doesn’t have the raw power of an Amy Lee or Amanda Sommerville, but she is very expressive and fluid when she sings. Dan Durakovich plays guitars and joins Park on the keys. He is a great rhythm player and generates some very big hooks and heavy riffs. Drummer Sammy J. Watson (The Apex Theory) and amazing bassist Mark Valencia provide a great one-two punch at the bottom end and are the backbone of the band.

The energetic “Fearless” kicks off the album with some fancy progressive keyboards and a nice rolling bass line and has an almost Rush meets Dream Theater feel to it. “Disappear In You” is driven mostly by Mark Valencia’s superb bass and Park’s powerful vocals and features an intense keyboard solo. The band plays a more conventional, guitar and bass driven rock tune with “Silent Sin,” one of the strongest tracks on the release. “Philistine” slams into the user with a full-on metal wall of guitars and massive drums, and some great vocals (even a touch of screamo) – this track makes full use of June Park’s vocal range. “Pretend” is a soft almost-ballad with an intricate bass line, smooth rolling chorus and a great bluesy guitar solo.

“Fracture” is an aggressive prog-metal track driven by bass and drums, and featuring a very intense vocal line buried amongst many tempo changes. Big drums and keyboards blend with growling rhythm guitars to keep the energy level high in “Dead To The World” while a moody bass line and somber lyrics make “Phantom Pain” a change of pace. Muffled vocals and eerie keys open the title track of “The Invalid” before the guitars kick in, and a handful of screamo vocals give this one a bit of a metalcore feel. Great keys, vocals and a prog guitar line allow the lighter toned“Comatose” to wrap the album in fine style.

There are very few weaknesses on The Invalid, and the listener really needs to nit-pick to find them. June Park has a great voice, but the band on the whole does not do all that much with backing or layered vocals – punching those up a bit would turn good tracks into great tracks. Not only a fine rhythm player, “Silent Sin” proves that Dan Durakovich can solo as well, but choses not to unleash the lead guitar on most tracks. A few more fills or short solos would be a step in the right direction. However these flaws are so minor that they barely are worth mentioning…

On the whole, The Invalid is wonderfully refreshing. The contrasts between the lightness of June Park’s voice and the intensity of the music sets Clandestine’s music apart from the pack. Surprisingly for a female-fronted act, June Park does not hog the spotlight. All members of Clandestine seem to be equally important to the music, and each knows their role – fine teamwork all around.

Nicely produced and well performed, The Invalid should appeal to fans of progressive metal, particularly the female-fronted variety. In fact, the many elements rolled into this album will appeal to fans of Evanescence, Dream Theater, Paramore, and Eyes Set To Kill.

Simple – get it.

Clandestine’s The Invalid will be released by Nightmare Records on 15 February 2011.

Genre: Progressive Metal

Band:
June Park – vocals, programming
Dan Durakovich – guitars, programming
Sammy J. Watson – drums
Mark Valencia – bass

Track Listing:
1. Fearless
2. Disappear In You
3. Silent Sin
4. Philistine
5. Pretend
6. Fracture
7. Dead to the World
8. Phantom Pain
9. The Invalid
10. Comatose

Label: Nightmare Records

Website: www.clandestineband.com

Hardrock Haven rating: 8.5/10

Tetrafusion Altered State

by Marc C.
Staff Writer

Any time an instrumental act adds vocals the outcome is usually like a fork in the road, either you make the wrong turn or you head onto a blissful path thankful the right turn was made. Unfortunately and in most cases a band will fall on its face as they’ve ventured outside its established comfort zone. Yet, Tetrafusion is not one of those bands.

While there is no doubt the musicianship is top notch, better then most new releases that have come down the pike in years, their song structures are light years beyond what most bands can even comprehend. The common comparison to Dream Theater not withstanding there’s a little something here for everyone. Think if the Dixie Dregs, Radiohead, Muse, Frank Zappa and of course Dream Theater had a baby and named it Tetrafusion and that should give you an idea for what you’re in for.

Although they have a tendency to wander through a song as if they’ve suddenly lost their bearings they find a way, albeit long after is necessary, to land squarely back on solid ground.

From a compositional standpoint there’s a lot left to be desired; however their technical ability is astounding for such a young group. Eventually they will find their way and when they do watch out because they will simply kick your ass at every turn.

If there was a damning condemnation to be made it would lie squarely with the vocals and at times song lengths, but overall a great first effort out of their comfy instrumental box.

Lastly and what certainly should be mentioned is the superb production throughout. Clear, crisp and concise mixing is what has made this album such an easy listen. Every note and drum strike is heard as if the listener has an ear on each individual string & drum head. This is a Prog fan’s wet dream come to life!

All in all a terrific effort and Altered State is a clear indication greater things from this band are on the horizon.

Genre: Prog Metal (and not even a fair definition at that)

Band:
Gary Tubbs – Lead Vocals, Keyboards, Synths
Brooks Tarkington – Electric & Acoustic Guitars, Vocals
Mark Michell – 7 String Bass, Fretless Bass
J.C. Bryant – Drums and Percussion

Track Listing:
1. Collage of the Present
2. Monologue
3. Last Chance
4. The Deserter
5. Altered State
6. Shadows
7. Tears of the Past

Label: Nightmare Records

Websites:
www.tetrafusion.net
www.myspace.com/tetrafusion
www.facebook.com/tetrafusion
www.twitter.com/tetrafusion

Hardrock Haven rating 8/10

Seven Thorns Return To The Past

by Joe Mis
Staff Writer

Denmark’s Seven Thorns is ready to unleash a new assault on the power metal world with their upcoming album Return To The Past. The band has taken great pains to purify their music and make it the epitome of the genre, and have succeeded remarkably well. Filled with hooky riffs, booming drums and solid vocals, this album will please any power metal fan.

Lyrically powerful and musically solid, Seven Thorns’ roots reach back to 1998, but the band really solidified when drummer Lars Borup joined forces with vocalist and songwriter Mik Holm. Numerous internal issues plagued the band and their first album was recorded but never released. Finally the group finally managed to stabilize and focus on their music.

“Liberty” opens the album with big sweeping guitars and a powerful drum line. The theme of fighting one’s own battles and not folding to outside pressures recur throughout the album. Guest guitarist Olaf Lank lays down a remarkable solo that highlights both his own talent and that of regular guitarists Gabriel Tuxen and Christian Strojer. “End Of The Road”gives keyboard player Asger Nielsen a moment in the sun, and the passionate voice of Erik Blomkvist blends nicely with the classically tinged guitar work of Tuxen and Strojer. “Through The Mirror” turns the speed down from 11 to 10 and gives drummer Borup and bass player Nicolaj Marker a chance to stretch their legs. This track have a very classical feel and could have easily appeared on one of Yngiwie’s albums. Nielsen’s keyboard work is quite slick here as well, making this easily the best track on the CD. Superb vocals and great teamwork highlight the galloping “Freedom Call,” along with some excellent guitar solos.

“Countdown” gallops along at high speed and allows Blomkvist to push the top of his vocal range. The opening of “Forest Majesty” is the only real break in the album’s intensity, but the double bass attack begins anew almost immediately. “Spread Your Wings” has a great opening riff – very much a conventional metal groove, but as before the rapid fire drums and bass return in earnest. “Fire And Storms” and the finale “Return To The Past” compete the aural assault.

Having refined their music to such a pure extreme makes Return To The Past a power metal showcase, but the album is so pure it is like drinking distilled water – sooner or later you need something with a different flavor. Almost all of the tracks have the same underlying tempo and the drum attack seldom seems to vary in speed or intensity. There is some variation in vocal timing and tempo, but at times it seems that different lyrics are the only way to tell one song from another. Non power metal fans will probably like each track on its own, but the relentless pounding across the CD will quickly wear them out. This aside, Return To The Past is slickly produced and well engineered. Everything is crisp and clear, as power metal should be.

Fans of power metal will love this album, but Seven Thorns will probably not bring new fans into the genre due to the unrelenting intensity and lack of easy differentiation between the songs. The band is definitely pure traditional power metal, and play their music with fire and passion. Immensely talented, Seven Thorns will only get better as they grow and begin to vary their sound and add some real originality to their tracks. If you like pure power metal with a hint of classical inspiration, don’t miss it.

Return To The Past drops on 14 January 2011.

Genre: Power Metal

Band:
Erik “EZ” Blomkvist (vocals)
Lars “Laske” Borup (drums, backing vocals)
Nicolaj Marker (bass, backing vocals)
Gabriel Tuxen (guitar, backing vocals)
Christian B. Strojer (guitar, backing vocals)
Asger W. Nielsen (keyboard, backing vocals)
Mik Holm (backing vocals, composer)
Guests: Mikkel Henderson (keyboards), Olaf Lenk (guitar solo on “Liberty” & “Return to the Past”)

Track Listing:
1. Liberty
2. End of the Road
3. Through the Mirror
4. Freedom Call
5. Countdown
6. Forest Majesty
7. Spread Your Wings
8. Fires and Storms
9. Return to the Past

Label: Nightmare Records

Website: www.myspace.com/seventhorns , www.seventhorns.com

Hardrock Haven rating: 7.5/10