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Judas Priest
Nostradamus
Judas Priests’ latest effort, a double disc concept album based on the life of prophesier Nostradamus is an epic that has its moments of brilliance yet unfortunately, also of decay. The whole thing clocks in over one and a half hours, which could be considered fantastic and exciting for Judas Priest fans, but what results is maybe 45 minutes too long.
It’s been awhile since I’ve listened to a concept album, and I will agree that they have served their purpose in the past. However, I’m not too sure they translate too well in the twenty-first century. Granted Halford’s vocals still soar after many years whereas other vocalists might have succumbed to the daily abuse and strain on their cords, and while some of the tunes rock out in traditional Priest style, and the guitar work of Glenn Tipton and K.K. Downing is still amazing, there is still something lacking here. It had all of the makings of a great epic masterpiece, but only ends up being so-so.
The disc is divided up into two acts with little instrumental preludes at the beginning of most of the twenty three tracks. The opening instrumental, “Dawns of Creation,” which leads into one of the best tracks on the disc, “Prophecy,” is fairly effective in the beginning, but by the middle of the album, the redundancy starts to wear on the listener. We get the point of instrumental calm before the storm, which is coincidentally the name of the last prelude. I believe subtlety would’ve been a better move here.
Where the disc does succeed is in the vocal prowess of Halford. Some of the lyrics are quite truthfully clichéd and bland, but Halford sings with such conviction that we seem to get sucked in. He seems to be using his lower register throughout the disc which adds a dimension of darkness to the overall product. The song “War” is a track where the lower range really adds to the flavor of the tune. It may be the best visionary track on the disc. With the sounds of clanging swords in the middle, you can actually picture the battle that has been brought on by the four horsemen. Other notable tunes are “Death” which has the sounds of tolling bells and a beating heart at the beginning. It’s a gritty tune with tortured vocals and a choral chant that give it a dark religious feel. “Persecution” is another track that carries the disc. The vocals are distorted and mysterious in the beginning and then give way to a heavy, heavy signature Priest sound. There are quick shouting lyrics in the middle followed by sweet guitar ramblings which effectively complement each other. In fact, this track ends Act One and gets the listener really pumped and excited for Act Two.
Unfortunately, the disc should’ve ended there because Act Two doesn’t really cover any new ground. The only really noteworthy tune is “Nostradamus” which is the second to last track. Halford displays his powerful falsetto which soon leads into his signature wailing screech that he’s so good at. The album then ends with a saucy guitar infused “Future of Mankind,” which pays kudos to K.K. and Tipton, but then comes to an anticlimactic end with a tinny piano.
This disc is overall a sincere effort by Judas Priest, but it just misses the mark. If you’re in the mood, light a candle, turn out the lights and give it a spin, but I’m not sure you’ll want to do it more than once.
Rating: 6.5 out of 10
Reviewed by: Jessica Skipper
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Def Leppard
The Sparkle Lounge
Stand out tracks: “Tomorrow” “Nine Lives” “C’Mon C’Mon” “Love”
“Nine Lives” follows Def Leppard’s proven formula for radio ready, 3 and a half minute pop songs. Coupled with the popularity of the 30-second commercial featuring Tim McGraw dueting with the boys on the title track, this will undoubtedly affect record sales in a positive way.
The fab five appear to be keeping themselves in shape as apparent on the inside cover art that features close-up portraits of each member and a flattering group shot of the men decked out in black and looking pretty buff, with extra attention focused on Phil Collen’s purposely exposed “abs of steel.”
Conversely, the front cover has that “Where’s Waldo?” appeal, as candid close-ups of dated pictures of the band members are depicted as a concert audience, providing a sea of nostalgia if you will.
Vivian Campbell and Phil Collen's guitar shredding adds a dynamic element to the classic Def Lep sound that was slightly lacking on prior material. Most impressive to me is the solo on “Tomorrow” and “Cruise Control.” There is plenty of rigorous riffing throughout, giving each of the songs a bit more character and identity without compromising the “Pour Some Sugar On Me” common denominator that defines the bands sound.
There’s nothing that really reaches uncharted territory and lyrically it’s kind of bland, however the fact that Def Leppard is still together and recording after the adversity they have faced is a testament to their character and determination and proof that there is still some life left in these five cats worth checking out.
Rating out of 10: 6.5
Review by Tracey L
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Billy Idol
The Very Best of Billy Idol: Idolize Yourself
This 18-song greatest hits compilation, released on June 24, the same day on which Idol is scheduled to perform on the outdoor stage of “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” encapsulates Billy’s successful music career that was propelled in large part by the heavy rotation of his music videos that followed the birth of MTV back in the early eighties.
All the ones you know and love are here along with a DVD that contains 13 classic videos that include previously unreleased, uncensored versions of “Hot in the City” and “Cradle of Love.”
The audio disk features two new tracks, “John Wayne” and “New Future Weapon,” both containing the signature Billy Idol/Steve Stevens sound.
“John Wayne” is a slower tempo, sensually pleasing song with a dark aura. Billy claims to identify with the late actor by stating his ability to overcome parallels his own life in many ways, and from what I see and hear Idol seems to have preserved himself fairly well, despite some of the low points in his career and alcohol abuse.
“New Future Weapon” offers a more rockin’ beat, but not as much of a hook or cool guitar solo as “Wayne.”
Most artists try to reinvent themselves to stay relevant, however, in Billy’s case, he has reached Icon status and that’s pretty impressive for a punk from England. Simply put, it’s a must have for any Idol fan old or new, and after all, why change what ain’t broke!
Rating out of 10: 7
Review by Tracey L
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Filter
Anthems for the Damned
Filter has returned after nearly six years with its fourth album of diverse musical samplings that range from edgy pop to metal to industrial. The music is charged by vocalist Richard Patrick’s angst about the current state of things in the US – namely the War in Iraq. From the lead off track, “Soldiers of Misfortune” to the instrumental closer, “Can Stop This,” the listener is left with a hollow feeling of how messed up things really are, with just a faint glimmer of hope that things may change for the better.
Musically, “Anthem’s…” truly benefits from the addition of guitarist John 5 (Manson, Zombie) and Patrick’s wide vocal range. John 5 adds a distinct edge to many of the pop infused tunes, while Richard Patrick mixes things up with his vocals which really add credence to his lyrics. When he sings, “crosses are our losses,” and “pain and hate become our bosses,” on the fifth track, “Hatred is Contagious,” his crafty and heartfelt vocals truly bring forth his anti-war message. Very few vocalists can express themselves the way Patrick does. His vocals become the instrument that can alter a message from sounding preachy or cliché to genuine and serious.
Has Filter’s new disc shattered any new ground? Probably not. It’s quite predictable and formulaic, yet stays true to the signature sound that is Filter, which is a good thing. The heavy bass is still intact, yet a bit more subdued, and the hard driving songs are still present as in, “What’s Next” and “The Take” (two standout tracks), but the disc as a whole seems a bit too “poppy.” It’s a decent and sincere effort, but at times the listener would just like to get into one groove, without getting all mixed up with different musical styles every other song. In the end, it’s a valid addition to Filter’s catalogue, and their fans won’t be disappointed.
Rating out of 10: 7
Review by Jessica Skipper
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Sound and Fury
(self-titled)
Band Line-up: Luke Metcalf, vocals; Griffin, lead guitar; Darryl Coppins, guitar; John Kerns, bass; Chris Avalos, drums
Stand out tracks: Can’t Get Enough, Hellhound, High School Hotbox
A little bit of punk, a little bit of old school rock and metal and plenty of trite, teenage lyrical content highlight this indie record set for release on June 24, 2008.
According to the liner notes, the recording was made in the bands rehearsal space, where the focus is undoubtedly on partying and perfecting guitar solos, as both are equally represented throughout the CD.
“Teenage Rampage” “18,” “Runaway Love,” and “Supercharged” reflects a plethora of punk influences from the Sex Pistols to the Misfits, while “Bad Touch” has an early AC/DC –ish feel to it. My personal fave of the collection, “Can’t Get Enough,” kind of reminds me of the The Four Horsemen (circa “Rockin’ is My Business”). It has a rhythmic, driving drum beat, sexually charged lyrics (that gives me a little shiver), and a killer guitar solo to boot.
There are strong components to this debut in addition to the guitar riffs. The vocals are strong, but are a tad compromised as Metcalf works his way up the octave scale at varied intervals. Only time will tell if we hear more from them in the near future.
Sound and Fury is based in Ontario Canada and is gearing up for a summer tour.
Check ‘em out at www.soundandfury.com (they’ve got some cool swag!)
Rating out of 10: 5.5
Review by Tracey L
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Revolver
The New Blood Rock Show DVD
Review by Tracey L
Band Line-up: Nicolas Walsh, vocals; Laurie Ann Green-bass, Tyson Emanuel-guitar; Wolfgang Verbeke-guitar; Ryan Abramowitz, drums
Nick Walsh and Co. catapult you right to the front row of their electrifying performance inside the Reverb Concert Hall in Toronto, Canada filmed in October 2007.
The DVD contains an extensive interview with front man Nick Walsh and bassist Laurie Ann Green. They provide an in depth synopsis of the band, how it came to be, how the members were selected and what their inspirations are. It’s quite apparent that all the members of the band are not only talented musicians, but all possess a genuine passion for what they do and how they do it. Bringing a finely tuned stage show to their fans is priority one. From the opening song, “Atomic Arcade” right through to “Dead Weight” and “Nosebleed” one can only wonder why Rockstar energy drink hasn’t contacted Mr. Walsh to be the spokesman or poster boy for their product line. His stage presence rivals the star quality combination of one part David Lee Roth to one part Vince Neil (to which I say…shake well and enjoy!). Revolver’s adrenaline is only harnessed momentarily by the poignant ballad and lastest single entitled “On Broken Wings,” which is not a love song about a woman, but in my opinion is a love song about life, and the importance of not compromising your convictions and dreams, and standing tall even when the odds, time and/or circumstances may be against you.
The performance showcases the individual talents of each member and the polished production recreates the raw energy of the live show right on your TV screen.
Accompanying the DVD is a bonus audio CD that contains the most recent material, in addition to a bunch of tunes from the Turbulence record, and a pair of Silk Toxic classics, “Helluvatime” and “Sweet Asylum.”
After watching the interview, where Nick and Laurie Ann stressed how important it was to find diverse band mates that not only shared their vision musically, but were able to “hang-out” together recreationally, really speaks volumes about the ideals that drive Revolver and what the band is trying to create for their audience.
In a business where many bands experience inner turmoil resulting in demise, Revolver thrives on love and respect, not just for each other and their fans, but for the greatest love of all, the love of rock and roll.
Experience Revolver live this summer...tour dates & band info can be found at www.revolvertv.com
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Naked Beggars
XXX
Stand-out tracks: Pretty Boy, Never Runaway, Three Shot Floor, The One
The third release from Naked Beggars is a potpourri of rock, punk and blues, smoldering with the scent of sassy attitude courtesy of front woman Inga Brittingham.
Hell, there is even a hint of Nashville flavor sprinkled here & there for an extra kick, especially on the track “Oh Daddy.”
It’s apparent Inga’s vocal delivery has evolved nicely with this record. On songs such as “Destiny” one can easily compare her voice to that of Natalie Merchant.
Bassist and producer Eric Brittingham, guitarist Kris Casamento and drummer Lisa Kossuth round out the line-up on the record, however, Lisa has since moved on and the band welcomes original drummer, Dustin Delore, back to the party.
The songs on XXX encompass everything from gritty roadhouse anthems such as “Three Shot Floor” to the sultry ballad “The One.” XXX does not run short on sexual overtones and “Pretty Boy” is one whose lyrics and groove accentuate the bad boy imagery, and what rocker chick doesn’t appreciate a man in tight Levi’s? Speaking of dirty rocker boys, if you listen closely, you can hear (what I believe) is the intentional sampling of Robert Plant’s caterwaul from Zeppelins “Immigrant Song,” but it could be just a coincidence, so I will have to confirm that with the band next time we chat. However, the lyrical content on the majority of the other tunes seems a bit more introspective and the melodies a bit more complex when compared to their previous releases, and the more I listen to the record, the more I like it and appreciate the little nuances it has to offer for whatever mood you happen to be in. From the innocence of “Oh Daddy” to the double barrel blast of “Go Where You’re Wanted” and “Never Runaway” this record has something for everyone.
www.nakedbeggars.net
Rating out of 10: 6.5
Review by Tracey L
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Lenny Kravitz
It Is Time For A Love Revolution
Lenny’s new CD offers over an hours worth of music and kicks in with a “love train” kind of vibe with “Love Revolution.” It has a funky groove and Lenny’s message of love and bringing people together has its mark all over this one. The first single that was released late in 2006 is the second song “Bring It On.” The song “Love, Love, Love” is a song that talks about how he doesn’t need some of the necessities that you would think that someone in his position or stature would need or be accustomed to (country clubs, private planes, and drugs.) The ballad “I’ll Be Waiting” is an outstanding ballad and starts off with Lenny showcasing his talents on the piano and he also plays the bass, drums, lead guitar and background vocals. This song really just shows how amazing a musician he really is! Great lyrics and total arrangement on this tune! “A Long and Sad Goodbye” talks about the divorce of his parents and how it left an impact on him. The song “This Moment is All There Is” has a jazz feeling to it. It’s a typical Kravitz song where he incorporates other styles of music to make his own. The last two songs have to do with the current war situation “Back in Vietnam” and “I Want to Go Home.” The song “Back in Vietnam” reminds me a lot of “Dig In” off the “Lenny” CD. It seems to have the same hook and groove. It worked the first time and works here as well.
This release has 14 songs and all of them were produced and arranged by Lenny himself. Lenny wrote all of the songs besides “Good Morning” which was co written by Tony Lemans. This CD is probably the most emotional recording that Lenny has done and reinforces how he wants the world to come together for a “Love Revolution.” Make Love not War….right Lenny???
Rating 8.5
Review by Gus Griesinger
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Whitesnake
Good for Bad
UPDATED!
We at GlamMetal received the entire release of Whitesnake’s “Good To Be Bad” from SPV Records. The 11 track CD kicks off with the opening track “Best Years” and revels in front man David Coverdale’s current state of happiness! The third track “Call On Me” shows Doug Aldrich’s talent’s as a guitarist and how he truly fits right in as David’s current wingman. If your looking for the classic track that reminds you of those earlier Whitesnake CD’s then “Good to Be Bad’ fits your request. New drummer Chris Frazier takes flight on this song along with more great guitar work from Doug Aldrich. The acoustic driven “Summer Rain” is one of the ballads that will be ok for the men to hold a cell phone up to and at the same time keep your woman’s panties wet. The bluesy “A Fool in Love” has that traditional Whitesnake sound more than any other song on the CD. It hits you with hard pounding drums and melodic, yet searing guitar when needed. I like “Got What You Need” as it’s the heaviest tune on the CD.
All of the songs were written by singer David Coverdale and guitarist Doug Aldrich. The album was produced by both Coverdale and Aldrich along with Michael McIntyre. The rest of the 2008 version of Whitesnake is: Reb Beach on rhythm guitar, Uriah Duffy on bass, and Timothy Drury on Keyboards.
We hope to have some features on Whitesnake coming up in the next couple of months so stay tuned to GlamMetal.com! Look out for Whitesnake on tour this summer in Europe with Def Leppard. For more information on Whitesnake go to: www.whitesnake.com
The official release in the USA and Canada: April 22nd 2008
Germany: April 18th 2008
Europe: April 21st 2008
The tips of our tongues were treated to a taste of the upcoming release of Whitesnake's CD "Good To Be Bad" from SPV Records. We received a three-song CD sampler containing the songs: "All For Love," "All I Want All I Need" and "Lay Down Your Love." The track "All For Love" is a blazing guitar song that displays the familiar Whitesnake sound with solid vocals laid down by Mr. David Coverdale. What's a CD released by Whitesnake without a fine ballad? "All I Want All I Need" serves as that staple here. Maybe the band will release a video to go along with the song???
"Lay Down Your Love" opens up with a vocal harmony from Coverdale and kicks out with lots of balls and attitude. The song totals over 6 minutes in length with loads of great guitar work by Doug Aldrich.
Coverdale hasn't lost a thing vocally as evident by the songs mentioned. The three songs were written by singer David Coverdale and lead guitarist Doug Aldrich. The rest of the 2008 version of Whitesnake is: Reb Beach on rhythm guitar, Uriah Duffy on bass, Timothy Drury on Keyboards, and Chris Frazier on drums.
We hope to have some features on Whitesnake coming up in the next couple of months so stay tuned to GlamMetal.com! Look out for Whitesnake on tour this summer in Europe with Def Leppard. For more information on Whitesnake go to: www.whitesnake.com
The official release in the USA and Canada: April 22nd 2008 Germany: April 18th 2008
Europe: April 21st 2008
Review by Gus Griesinger
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Iron Maiden
Live After Death DVD
This double disc concert/documentary is a must for all of you Iron Maiden fans, and for all of those who have never made amends with the band. The DVD is far out a testimony to a band who broke the mold in more ways than just being a heavy metal band who were always shrouded with the cover of being in the leagues of “satanic music.” However, as anyone who knows, a greater musical genius was at work, and it wasn’t Satan, it was the hard working, never say die attitudes that catapulted these guys into a metal tour frenzy.
Disc One of this set shows Iron Maiden at their peak. Performing their four night, sold out March 14-18, 1985, “Live After Death” tour in Long Beach Arena, California, it was obvious that Iron Maiden was definitely in for the long run. They established a presence in metal-rock history that can never be duplicated. From their spandex and hair to their Egyptian backgrounds and masks, they really spoke volumes with their music and words.
Disc two is a documentary with current interviews from the band. It’s a definite must see for those who want to not only hear about their ground breaking “World Slavery” tour from 1984-85, but to see the many transformations of the band members (physically, if not emotionally). It’s worth your time to see band members relay the facts of an historical tour that began behind the Iron Curtain in Warsaw, Poland. Take a look at this DVD, and I know that you will gain a huge perspective on the enormity that Iron Maiden’s music has had on this world.
Rating: 9 out of 10
Reviewed by: Jessica Skipper
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Fight
War of the Words DVD
Formed in 1992, Fight, led by Rob Halford (Judas Priest) showed just what metal could add to the changing musical scene. The result is a sweet combination of Halford’s incredible vocals mixed with incredible young musicians who added a depth that combined the 80’s metal flare to the 90’s grunge infused sound. The result, a great band which Halford chose member by member to expand upon his musical vision.
Halford sought to find a new musical format. What he discovered was that his tattoo artist, Jay Jay, could play bass, and that Jay Jay’s friend, Brian Tilse (guitar), were actually in a band together. The rest resulted in a dynamic forming of Fight, which would prove that musical influences could cross many paths to create something original and true.
The DVD consists of a fifteen-minute documentary showing how Halford and the rest of the band members of Fight came together. Halford describes their music as, “hard core and heart felt metal.” He also refers to this band as, “exciting, powerful, strong, and dramatic.” Absolutely.
The rest of the DVD consists of five tour dates from 1993 in Portland, Paris, Bonn, Denver, and Munich. The footage is top notch, and the overall energy and excitement of this band are truly felt. The concerts were definitely an experience by those who were in attendance, and this DVD will help the rest of us experience the essence and soul that is Fight.
Incredibly, “No overdubs to recorded audio show have been made,” which is another reason you should check out this DVD. Fight’s sound is right on. Halford and his band, Fight, have really created a brief moment in musical history that should not be forgotten. Check out “Immortal Sin,”(church boy choir to Satan) and you will know what I mean.
Rating: 8 out of 10
Reviewed by: Jessica Skipper
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Winger
Live at the Galaxy
Shrapnel Records
Winger released their first “live” DVD on January 15th, 2008 via Shrapnel Records. I was very surprised that it took them this long to release a live DVD considering that the band has been around for over 20 years now. The 17 track DVD was filmed at the Galaxy Theater on March 3rd, 2007 in Anaheim, California. It was done in support of their latest studio release, Winger IV. The DVD opens up with a great kickoff track, “Blind Revolution Mad.” This DVD covers all of their hits “Easy Come, Easy Go,” Headed for a Heartbreak,” “Can’t Get Enough,” “Seventeen,” “Miles Away,” and “Madalaine.” This was shot using multiple camera angles with black and white video slated into certain parts as well. Everything was mixed pretty good and the crowd shots weren’t too overbearing as the video focused on the band for the most part. Due to the stage being as low as it was, the back camera angles couldn’t grab great shots of the band without close-ups as the feeds were getting the backs of people’s heads. Winger are a “no frills type of band” and really let their music do their talking. Now that the Galaxy is closing down, there is a great video to purchase not only to remember “The Galaxy”, but the band Winger as well!
The DVD was produced by Jack Edward Sawyers with the executive and management of the DVD by Jamie Talbot.
Rating 7.5 out of 10
Review by Gus Griesinger
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Kil Jaden
Kil Jaden
This very young band from Las Vegas has only been playing together for about a year and a half, but they have already made their stamp in the hard rock-metal world. Led by Kil Brian on vocals/guitar, the rest of the band consists of Cory Kay on bass, Ronnie Griego on lead guitar, and Paul Von Klock on drums. The result is a powerful sound consisting of some fairly interesting and complex melodies.
The five tracks are easy to listen to rock and roll, no doubt about it. The lead track, “Fallen Angel” is quite catchy, but I believe they really shine on their upbeat ballad, “Pick Up the Pieces.” Overall, Kil Jaden has proven that they can create original rock that is beyond the status quo. Definitely a band to keep your eye on!
Track Listing
Fallen Angel
The Broken
Start To Fade
Pick Up the Pieces
Krazy
Rating 7 out of 10
Review by Jessica Skipper
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Lions Share
Emotional Coma
It may have taken them six years, but Lions Share has created a disc that reestablishes themselves as true masters of metal in the classical sense. This Swedish band provides a diverse assortment of music ranging from fist clenching frenetic metal to dreamy landscapes, to mosh pit infused fun. The sound is fueled by an urgency that is established through the amazing guitars and tortured yet sweet vocals of Patrik Johansson. All of the mind-blowing music comes together for an outstanding effort that sounds polished and raw at the same time.
The lead off track, “Cult of Denial,” sets the desperate, dark mood of urgency that permeates throughout the disc. The title track, “Emotional Coma,” is nothing short of brilliant. In fact, Lars Chriss, Lions Share’s founder, refers to it as a “Doom ballad.” Right on! Adding to the song’s grit and grace, is Megadeth’s Glen Drover on lead guitar. What an absolutely stellar addition! One stand out line seems to sum up the lead track perfectly, “Paradise can turn to Hell,” which is exactly how this track will make you feel.
Other stand out tracks include: “The Edge of the Razor,” which is more in tune with Lion Shares former sound and features KISS’s Bruce Kulick on lead guitar, the gritty guitar driven, “Arsonist,” the pop infused, “Trafficking,” the classic metal sound of, “Soultaker,” and the final track which is an Angel Witch cover, “Sorcerers.”
Overall, “Emotional Coma” is a top notch, kick ass metal album. All of the eleven tracks are of the highest quality, and you can tell that a huge amount of effort went into this production. Check them out!
Track Listing:
Cult of Denial
The Arsonist
Emotional Coma
Clones of Fate
The Edge of the Razor
Toxication Rave
Trafficking
Bloodstained Soil
Soultaker
Hatred’s My Fuel
Sorcerers
Rating 9 out of 10
Review by Jessica Skipper
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Simpler Machine
2013
Hailing from Hollywood, Simpler Machine are a raucous quintet with enough energy and “fuck you’s” to make your mom’s head spin. The adrenaline rush never ceases from the lead off track, “Pretty Good Looking,” to the closing track, “Go Wild.” In between is a fun crazy mixture of rock, metal, and punk with all abandonment of couth. These guys really don’t care who they offend, which makes them all the more appealing.
Taking their lead from the angst ridden vocals of Jon Nicholson, Dave Isaac and Joey Sanchez lead the powerful driving guitars, with Anoush Saboktakin on bass and Jason Brunk on drums keeping the frenetic pace alive. Granted this is not music for everyone, but they succeed in making an enjoyable mixture of clever if raunchy lyrics that will leave you short of breath after one listen. Stand out tracks include: “Ratfuck,” “Let’s Fuck in the Van,” and “Mental Karate Chick.” If you want to piss off your neighbors on a hot summer day with all of the windows open, then this band is for you.
Track Listing:
Pretty Good Looking
Let’s Fuck in the Van
Monkeytrap
Some Kind of Friend
Desiree
Mental Karate Chick
She Likes to Fuck A lot
Local Iron Worker’s Blues
5 Minute Fuck
Ratfuck
Black Bra
Monday Man
Go Wild
Rating 7 out of 10
Review by Jessica Skipper
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Comstok
Try Something New
The sounds of Anthony Dilorenzo’s vocals automatically grasp the listener into the world that is Comstok. Finishing the trio are Tanny Chavez on guitar and Eric Eppel on drums. For the unassuming listener, one would assume that there would have to be a larger musical backing for this band out of L.A., but Comstock does a wonderful job filling out their sound with a minimal amount of instrumentation. Note to band, a little bass never hurt anyone, and although there is a “bass” presence, it would make you sound even better with a full time bass.
So the vocals are definitely the thing going for Comstok. Dilorenzo sings with a passionate baritone reminiscent of Astbury, Morrison, and Martin (Tea Party), and at times whining to the merit of Axl and Weiland. He has the charismatic soul that a lead man should always possess. From track one, “Don’t Blame Me” until the last track, “Positive,” this band proves that they have what it takes to create a disc full of cerebral remembrances. The lyrics are smart, the instrumentation is right on, and what else can be said. Comstok Rock. They have a sound that is familiar, yet their own. They’re not hiding anything here. All of the members are extremely talented and the result is a rock disc that speaks of madness, loss, and optimism…an eclectic mix that will not leave you disappointed.
The hi-lights of the disc are too numerous to mention, but the lead off track, “Don’t Blame Me,” is a hook that creeps into your head at the most unlikely of times. They also show their true musical talent on track number 4, “Showtime,” which is one hell of a tune. “I Am “ track 7 is a busted out tortured song that really gets to the point, and “The Way You Are” is there to remind us all of the unpredictability of those we know as well as ourselves. Right On. They also have the ability to slow things down such as the almost reggae/Zeppelin/mystical infusion on “The Myth” and the crying guitar ballad, “Climb,” which reminds us that, “try to climb and the illusion’s in your mind .” Well there’s no illusion here; Comstok is the real deal.
Overall, this is a super effort from a band with real heart. I will listen to this disc for a good while to come, and will never tire of the band’s many musical merits.
Track Listing:
Don’t Blame Me
The Myth
Climb
Showtime
Truthful
Intermission (instrumental)
I Am
The Way You Are
Say To You
Positive
Rating 8 out of 10
Review by Jessica Skipper
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Doro “All We Are –The Fight”
Locomotive Records
DVD/CD
We just got our hands on this special package of half audio/half video release from the German Metal Goddess Doro Pesch. The package contains 5 audio and 5 video tracks that highlight some of Doro’s live appearances and a special remake of “All We Are” for her friend and German boxer Regina Halmich. The CD/DVD also contains a very heartfelt cover of Led Zeppelin’s “Babe I’m Going to Leave You.” This song shows Doro’s soft side with tremendous vocal range. The song “On My Own” features vocals Krokus frontman Marc Storace that is from a Swiss movie Anuk - The Path of the Warrior that they both star in. The package also includes videos of some live clips and some footage of the movie mixed in. The video “Above the Ashes” is in the same type of realm with live feeds mixed in with some behind the scenes footage of her band on the road.
All in all a cool little CD/DVD release. The only fault with this release is that the videos are a little difficult to get to. This CD/DVD is a special release for the US fans as a way to say “Thank You” from Doro Pesch herself. Doro will be making another North American trek in the spring of 2008 so go to www.doropesch.com website for more details on that.
Tracks
Audio:
All We Are
Thunderspell
Everything’s Lost
On My Own
Babe, I’m Going to Leave You
Video:
All We Are
Above the Ashes
Warrior Soul
You’re My Family
On My Own
Review by Gus Griesinger
Rating 7 out of 10.
Buy this CD/DVD here
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