HAVOK - Burn

With just 5 years of existence but with enough fans all over the world, and music such as this one, it was no wonder why Candlelight decided to release Havok's debut album, Burn. The band from Colorado is playing Thrash Metal, not the way it was meant to be played, but the way it was played back in the 80's. With the main characteristic of their music being the razor-sharp guitar riffs, the screaming vocals, the strong rhythm section and the excellent melodies, it takes a few minutes to become an instant favorite. It's really hard to tell if this album was recorded back in 1986, or 23 years later, and without the shiny production, and some more modern elements here and there, it would be much harder. The vocals are the ones that a Thrash album should have, screaming and fitting perfectly with the style of the music, while the rhythm section simply kicks asses. What's more interesting though, is that the band is talented enough and manages to create songs that are diverse enough. The songs are catchy enough, suitable for live club performances, or banging your head along with the rhythm. One might say that the album is old-fashioned, and I wouldn't agree more. But it's so well performed, and brings back an 80's feeling that I found mostly welcome. An album that you should definitely check out.

10/10

NEW DEVICE - Takin Over

This is one of the pleasant surprises one has, when it comes to listening and reviewing new albums. The band here, comes from England, and this is their first album so far. But don't be mistaken, despite the fact that this is their first release, they are talented and experienced enough, something that is quite obvious from the first to the last minute. What the listener should expect, is top class Hard Rock, with vocal harmonies, excellent melodies, catchy choruses and memorable parts. Exactly the kind of music that was meant to be played loud, while driving or drinking beers with friends, or being enjoyed live at big stadiums. There are no weak moments here, or songs that could have been done in a better way, something that makes this album a good companion from the first moment. The music is well worked, and equally well performed, and has a way to sneak into your mind. There's variety in their music, with parts where the listener can sing along, parts where things are more slow and melodic, and times when things speed up. all these, used in the correct dose, leaving none unsatisfied. If you are into Classic Rock and Hard Rock, then this album has a lot to offer. Pick it up, play it loud and enjoy!

9/10

ONSLAUGHT - Live Damnation

It's really hard to believe that long time favorite bands call it quits, and is equally hard to believe rumors of reunions as well. But Onslaught is once again with us, after a big, well really big, break, in between. This live recording, that was recorded, last year, contains some diamonds from their early years, but also some fragments of what's expecting us, with their new release through Candlelight Records. Fast and aggressive, with melodies and singing along parts, this album has all it takes to became a favorite. The band sounds in a very good shape, and sometimes you get the feeling that the album was recorded back in their early days. The production is also very good, leaving space for the audience to be heard, and delivering some of their energy to the listener. Definitely a band with a huge fan base, and maybe one of the early Thrash bands, that deserved some more than they finally got. A very good release, either for long time Thrash enthusiasts, or newcomers, that want to explore the genre.

9/10

EDGUY - Fuckin With F*** - Live

Most of you are familiar with the sound of Edguy. When it all started, many people raised an eyebrow, wondering, if they could also sing as well. After so many years, Edguy not only managed to create a big band, not only managed to get to the top, but also stayed there. So, here is a recording in Sao Paolo, that will be released in a DVD and in a double CD live, to prove exactly that. Usually I am not a big live album fan, but this one was really a very pleasant surprise. This, because the release manages to put you into the stadium, and feel like you are one of the crowd. The screaming, the communicating with people, the fun everyone's had, everything is here, and not cut, giving a complete experience to the listener as well. The songs are well picked, from their early days to the latest releases, including Avantasia, and the crowd seems to have a good time, screaming, participating and singing along. The production is excellent, leaving space for the audience's reactions, without destroying the result. For those that were into the stadium that night, this release is a must have. But it's also a good release for all those that want to see, and/or listen how this gifted band sounds live.

10/10

CHRIS CAFFERY - House Of Insanity

This is the fourth solo album of the artist, an artist that is mostly known for his Savatage/Trans Siberian Orchestra work, although he has participated into numerous projects and bands as well. After a cautious listening, the listener will find many things to like, but also a few things that might dislike as well. Musically, the album is closer to what a Savatage album was, although still on the path of his personal style and touch. What might sound odd, is the way Caffery sings, some might like it, others might not. Maybe he is not the most gifted vocalist, but manages to give a very unique, and kind old school feeling to the songs. The music here is well written, melodic, and heavy, and has an old school groove. The guitar work somehow dominates the whole album, something usual, but I am sure that no one will bother, since it's very good, with equal amount of aggression and melody. What we dig into this album, is the ease that Chris Caffery manages to create music that stick into the mind, and makes you sing along. In this case, more raw, without the epic choruses and riffing, but still, well performed and enjoyable. One of the most noticeable moments of the album is the duet with Zak Stevens. A hard choice though, one of those that one should hear and decide.

8/10

PRIMAL FEAR - Six Times Dead

First single/video from the new Primal Fear album 16.6 (Before The Devil Knows You're Dead).