VYNDYKATOR

HEAVEN SENT FROM HELL

UNISOUND RECORDS, (C)2002

Imagine yourself walking the streets at night. You’re cold, tired, and just want to get yourself home. Home…your safe, warm place from the gloom of the dark city. Something is different about tonight…there is a sense of utter quiet and evil. Something or someone is watching you. But who?

Out of the shadows, stepping into a dimmed streetlight appears the Ghoul Man. His hands clutching the cold air; eyes peering into your frightened soul; face mocking your cries of help, showing no expression or emotion. The underground has risen…and the Ghoul Man has come for YOU!!!

The imagery you have just seen is that of the debut release from New Jersey’s Metal Masters, VYNDYKATOR. Gracing their album cover is the Ghoul Man…the answer to the lost characterization of trademark. It seems that Iron Maiden’s Eddie has some competition. Yes, Ghoul Man is the new breed of heavy metal mascot: always there & out to get you! If you think the cover is great, wait until you hear the music. Here’s a synopsis of the entire album, just so you can get the idea that VYNDYKATOR are here to stay…and they mean business!

Opening track, “Eternal Rest” starts with some serious eerie guitar and doom-like bass. Just by the first few notes, I feel like I’m being sucked back into the 80’s…back into some horror movie where I’m about to die. The anxiety is built up so high, I feel like my heart is about to explode. Then, the spoken words chime in….

No Purpose

A Brutal Ending

Free of Torture

Free of Prison...........or Not....

This guy sound like he came straight from the depths of hell, and literally made the hairs on the back of my neck stand straight up! An evil laugh follows these words, and makes me feel like I’ve come to a point of no return, filled with horror and evil. The slow, eerie guitar pauses, then the same melody is played over, only this time with added distortion and heaviness. The double bass drums add a killer effect, enriching the song with more anxiety and depth. Heavy and melodic tunes fill my ears, as I wait for the song to take off even more. I can’t stand this tension anymore…the melodies get heavier, the drums faster, the bass more evil; everything is now in complete turbo force…

Leading into the next track, “Blood Stained Gallows” I am taken for a long plunge into the metal madness. Bob Mitchel’s vocals are perfectly in sync with the music, making the time signatures perfect!! It’s the kind of beat that you can’t help but really BANG YOUR HEAD TO!!!! There’s some heavy duty head-banging to be done here.

Faces, lost for all times

Traces, which led to your crimes

Mercy, release me from destiny

Victim, of insanities reign

Chosen, by the evil messiah

Mercy, I throw myself at you

(Chorus) Blood Stain

Stained Gallows

These lyrics really go for the throat!!! Mr. Mitchell’s vocals are UDO-ish, yet he still hits appropriate high notes at just the right moments. This makes me laugh with awe at how fucking cool this is…at yet it’s only the first song. After the chorus is repeated, there is a breakdown, and then the guitar solo comes in, blistering with licks and strong imagery of the song’s portrayal. An occasional guitar “scream” is added, which really adds to the whole horror theme. The end of the song adds a small time change, which is much needed for my fast-beating heart, but only then warps back into hyper speed.

One of my most favorite songs on this album follows: “Rot In The Chamber”. The opening notes are killer, and give a feel of charging and oblivion. The vocals come in almost immediately, and are executed with a sense of reign. Clearly, this is a song FULL of emotion, leading into the plot of this song.

Accused of Crimes

Scapegoat for a Mob

They need to accuse

To satisfy their souls

Now I wait for the Truth to be revealed

Until that day

My Life Concealed

Then the chorus comes into play, with such a beat and rhythm one cannot help himself to pound their fist into the air as it’s being sung. This was exactly what I did!!! There is a pause, and an Yngwie Malmstein-like guitar lick is executed. The tune becomes more rhythmical: “No Mercy!…My Life now Worthless…What Mercy?” As this is being sung, there are many guitar licks and melodies being played in sync with the execution of the vocals, along with a cleverly played bass line. Then the rhythm slows down a bit, but the drums speed up, almost like pounding, galloping war drums! Chugging guitars and thumping bass align the dimensions of the evil, rough vocals. Rot in the chamber!!!! A single guitar is played quickly. Then the bass, drums and other guitar repeat this melody several times. HEAVY SHIT!!! Pace quickens, and the vocals come in again, fierce and high. The chorus is played again. Time change occurs with a JUDAS PRIEST like melody you’d hear from “Jugulator”. It’s brutal! No wonder VYN has featured this track in several metal compilations.

Featured in another killer metal compilation, which also has a VYN story, is “Tapping The Vein”. The guitars are at times BLACK SABBATH-like, yet keep the VYN trademark. The tune is fast and furious: (quickly)ne ne ne ne ne ne ne ne ne ne ne ne DA DA!!! (repeat) This is executed with tight drums and bass, adding a VERY memorable beat which simply must be head-banged to!!! This halts, and a tribe-like drum and bass spell out doom, building the adrenaline. The guitars play again, one on rhythm and the other on a continued lick. Time changes again, as the last verse is sung:

Fabricate stirring tales of chivalry

Amputate golden wings

Fascination lures you to its Calvary

Termination closes possibility (which is sung REALLY HIGH)

Apparition chant (which is hauntingly SCREAMED)

This song basically rips your head off and plays bombard with it, because you can’t stop banging to the tune!!!

Onto the next song, “Mister Murder” you can’t help but feel there’s something very special about this song. By now, most albums begin to lack the energy they previously displayed, loosing the listener’s attention. These songs are called “fillers”. I bring this point of information to attention because this album has continuously kept me on my feet, playing the air guitar, banging my head, pounding my fist, and wanting MORE AND MORE!!!!! The supremacy of VYNDYKATOR is clear…they are not another new power metal band with three or four good songs to their name. They have influences just like everyone else, but they don’t try to be their mentors. Special….this song BLASTS into a fierce guitar lick that made me want to grab my guitar and pretend I was playing that wonderful melody I was hearing. The kind of melody that you’d expect from IRON MAIDEN, yet not the kind that makes you think, “Are they IRON MAIDEN rip-offs”. The drums once again pound away, then the guitar note is held until it fades into quiet, while a bass solo is played. Then the song speeds up, in vein of the previous guitar melody, while the vocals command every note.

I have no time to chase

The end is here now

Now in Hell

Yes in hell

Time will tell

I'll not leave

You shall not be

Ever free

Beneath me

The time changes, and the guitar is played with a unique type of distortion, which adds flavor and interest in the song. The drum: “dink, dink”, then the guitar plays a whaling, scream. This is all followed by the rhythm played to the tune of the previous unique guitar sounds. It just sounds fucking awesome!!! One guitar is soloing and just going off, while the drums take lead of the bass and rhythm being played. This is something which HAS TO BE HEARD, yet even better, NEEDS TO BE SEEN LIVE!!! The opening riff is led into, followed by the vocals. Doom and melody are the name of the game here, and are played to perfection.

Now you will pay (sung brutally)

With your life

With your life (this is sung high, and the note is held…AWESOME!)

The drums command the end of the song, with slamming beats and screaming symbols. The last vocal line is held high, and the tune is ferocious: “(quickly and heavy)ba ba, ba ba, ba ba ba ba, ba – ba” This is played several times, then a blistering guitar solo screams its way out the speakers, while the tune is continuously played. A sudden stop occurs. Electric acoustic melodies are played, while the distortion grows, repeating the intro melody with added heaviness and some added guitar licks. It is a musical masterpiece!!!

The next song is an intrumental...something which has lost attention on metal albums. "Flight of the Wombat" is a furious metal attack, showcasing the talents of VYNDYKATOR's musicians. Melody, heaviness, speed, harmony...it's all here. Bass lines that kill, drum beats that lead you off your feet...time changes, chugging rhythms...it's ALL HERE! VYN prooves that old school metal is here to stay!!! Bang that head again!!!

The album closes out with a cover of "Deceiver" from JUDAS PRIEST. A nod to their mentors, VYN takes this song to a whole new level. Every aspect of the band shines thru. Like the lyrics say, "...We shall stay forever". I hope they do!!!

BUY THIS ALBUM OR DIE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

RATING: 100/10

(yes...it's THAT DAMN GOOD!...AND NO, THAT ISN'T AN ERROR. I SAID 100 OUT OF 10, DAMN IT!!!!!)

OFFICIAL VYNDYKATOR WEBSITE

ALCHEMY X: Demo 2001-2002

TRACK 1- Looking Glass TRACK 2- 11:59:59

ALCHEMY X: The complete story/interview

Reviews and interview by Anthony DeLuca

ALCHEMY X: a band that has prowled the underground for some time now. Seeking their own identity, AX has crafted a style of music I have LONGED to hear from a band of their genre. Imagine the progressive feel of recent SAVATAGE with a touch of ANGEL DUST’S progressive elements, wrapped up with the musicianship of an old-school power metal band, such as a slower HELSTAR or the upbeat IRON MAIDEN. Some have even compared this band to the likes of DREAM THEATRE or made references to SYMPHONY X. However, there is so much more to this band, as you will soon see. Introducing New Jersey’s ALCHEMY X, equipped with a new vocalist UNLIKE their first (whom fit into the prog-metal category). This new vocalist crosses the line of where power metal meets progressive metal. Throw away all the rules…take a classic metal vocalist (who isn’t another Geoff Tate clone) and throw him into the mix of progressive power metal, and you get the new voice and sound of AX. Welcome, Bob Mitchell (former ATTACKER, SLEEPY HOLLOW, current VYNDYKATOR vocalist) and this new brand of metal. Following this review is the AX interview, where you can introduce yourself to this GREAT band. This review can also be found on my ALBUM REVIEWS page.

TRACK 1- Looking Glass

Opening the song is a small drum intro, followed by the galloping guitar riffs. The bass lines fit well into this song, and remind me of IRON MAIDEN from their Killers album. The vocals are of the old-school vein, as they always have been with the talents of Bob Mitchell. This song is a true head-banging tune, with awesome time signature and melody. The time change at 2 minutes and 50 seconds reminds me of a JUDAS PRIEST riff; it sounds so well in this part of the song and really continues the feel of the song. The time-changes back to the way it was before, then incorporates this riff. AMAZING!! At the 5-minute mark, the vocals become higher and higher; the guitar plays faster and faster…it’s pure adrenaline bleeding through the speakers! The song ends this way, leaving the listener on the edge of their seat, foaming at the mouth and wanting more. More is exactly what you get…

TRACK 2- 11:59:59

One second away…from the stroke of midnight. Being the title track of their forthcoming album, AX has REALLY pushed the boundaries of metal to the next level. The true musicianship of AX shines through on this song. The guitars, bass, drums, and keys are perfectly placed in this song. Then, the vocals kick in…an unexpected surprise from this type of music. Somehow, it all fits in together and kicks your ass in a serious way. The atmosphere presented in this song goes hand in hand with the galloping guitar melodies, spelling out disaster and apocalypse. There are several time changes presented in this song, yet this does NOT take away from the interest or attention of the song. Based on a story of impending doom and evil, 11:59:59 is an awesome song that shows the true magic of AX. The lyrics KICK ASS:

“The eyes are staring…All uncaring”

“Reflecting my sin…Of my undoing”

This band has it all: chemistry, musicianship, talent…I could go on and on. This leaves me wanting to hear MORE and MORE. I look forward to the full length release.

HIGHLY FUCKING RECOMMENDED…get this or you are MISSING OUT!!!

RATING: 10/10

CONTACT: Alchemy-X@prodigy.net

UNCHECKED AGGRESSION: The Massacre Begins – Independent Recording, 2002

Very, very professional…packaging, layout, sound…it’s ALL here. Welcome to the world of Texas’ own, new breed of thrash-metal: UNCHECKED AGGRESSION. Meet Cody Jinks (Vocals/Rhythm Guitar), Ben Heffley (Lead Guitar), Anthony Walker (Drums), and Chris Lewis (Bass Guitar). This album’s cover-art is absolutely awesome…old-school metal image at its best. A very roughly sketched demonic looking figure, very muscle bound, is preparing to heave his battle axe down ONCE AGAIN onto his helpless, butchered victim. Blood is abundant, and so is the carnage. On the back sleeve of the album are the band members, in full caricature, suited with metallic-spiked armor (and they look PISSED OFF)!!! Complete with a full lyric book and band photo, this packaging ALONE sparked my interest. Along with this CD was a nicely detailed press kit, providing the band’s contact information, history, and member profiles. This is a band that is VERY influenced by PANTERA, Cowboys from Hell era. Onto the music…

Opened with a spoken word introduction, the listener is immediately drawn towards the aggression of this band. The first song, “Smell of Blood” opens with a short drum offering, then builds up to a mid to fast paced song. This song also has elements of the first FIGHT album. About 2 and ¼ minutes into the song, the pace picks up to a thrash metal riff, reminiscent of NUCLEAR ASSAULT. The vocals are very similar to PANTERA meets METALLICA, in their old-school fashions. A VEY interesting sound is presented. The second song, “Why Am I Mad?” opens with AMAZING guitar riffs, then RIPS into a mini guitar solo, leading into the vocals. The pace is constant and relentless…a true head banging, thrash-along with tune!! The next one is KILLER…opening in vein of DESTRUCTION, then leads into a newer-sounding OVERKILL. Great time sequence and song structure! The rest of the album plays in this same manner…crushing guitar melodies and aggressive vocals.

This album was a refreshing sound on my ears…it’s about time!!! Fans of old PANTERA, METALLICA, OVERKILL, and NUCLEAR ASSAULT will eat this up. Recommended!!!!

RATING: 8.5/10

BAND CONTACT

CHRIS: metalhead19@hotmail.com ANTHONY: THRNWITHIN@hotmail.com

BEN: Uncheckedaxmaster@hotmail.com CODY:Cjthrasher@hotmail.com

WEB: http://www.uncheckedaggression.com

DARKSIDE: Samples of Darkness – Independent Recording, 2001

With all the new power metal bands popping up from out of nowhere, the metal scene gets a little flooded and uninteresting. Of course, there are always exceptions to the similarities. There’s always a small handful of bands that break past the HELLOWEEN and HAMMERFALL clones, establishing a sound all their own, still keeping to their roots and influences. Interested yet? Look no further than to the sounds of Kansas City’s DARKSIDE. I had the extreme pleasure of being introduced to their sound at the fifth annual POWERMAD METALFEST. There is a DARKSIDE interview in the works, which is intended to properly acquaint you with this INCREDIBLE band! For now, Samples of Darkness holds a good representation of this bands talent and musicianship.

Opening track, “Mindrape” is an extremely heave song, incorporating pounding bass lines from Randy Hickey, heave chugging and galloping guitars from Gus, all with the distinct voice of Steve Bentley backed by the thunderous drums of Travis Fittro. This band is an extremely welcomed breath of fresh air. Imagine the guitar melodies of old TESTAMENT, IRON MAIDEN, and METALLICA, and the voice of ANGEL DUST, ROUGH SILK, and HAMMERS RULE. This band is unlike any other. The backing vocals add a nice touch to the first song. The words “Mind rape!!” are screamed in a robotic-like voice. This song is a thunderous, chugging enticement of pure heavy metal!

“Sea of Suffering” is next, and continues the heave, powerful approach this band offers. Opening with a VERY catchy bass and drum introduction, “Sea…” then blasts into the heavy, galloping guitar. The lyrics are dark, passionate, and grab you by the throat.

“Feel the pain inside your mind…”

“I see the vision…of hell!”

“I feel the pain now…I’m now dead”.

This song simply MUST BE HEARD!!!!

The next song is “Sanity Denied”, and has elements of the European prog/power/doom metal scene. The pace of the vocals is very cool…a type of singing which makes you want to bang your head ‘till it rips off your neck!!!! The guitar melodies are insanely perfect, incorporating all the elements of the vocals, pounding drums, and feelings if the lyrics.

Next, “Dying to Meet You” has a guitar rhythm similar to the feeling of IRON MAIDEN’s “Hallowed Be Thy Name”. After the first verse, this song dives into a heavy groove, accompanied by the powerful chorus,

“Dying to meet you…In the night…she takes their lives”

The bass line continues heavy with the marching drums, along with a very atmospheric guitar solo. Then, a catchy guitar riff is played while the song nears completion (da de da…de di de…da de de…de di de). Very cool.

The final song, “Scavenger”, starts very slow, then jumps at you with full force. Steve’s vocals are VERY aggressive and demanding in this song, complimented by the evil sounding backing vocals. Yet another head-banging classic, demanding you to turn up the volume. The guitar solo in this song is a screaming, moaning roar, which enhances the entire feeling of this song. The song ends with a gloomy, evil bass line that is sure to make the hair on your back stand tall. All fear the Scavenger of Hell!!

Recommended…check these guys out!

RATING: 9/10

CONTACT: darksidekc@hotmail.com

WEB: http://www.darksidekc.com

SINERGY "Beware the Heavens" Nuclear Blast, 1999

SINERGY is a female fronted power-metal band from Germany. I must say, I am VERY picky when it comes to these types of bands, but SINERGY is the exception. Kimberly Goss really does a killer job here, delivering each and every song with passion, emotion, exceptional range, and tone. She is probably one of the BEST female vocalists I've ever heard. Album opener, "Venomous Vixens" starts with a short guits riff, and then goes straight for the jugular! The chorus is catchy, and the lyrics discuss impending doom for all who cross the path of these "Vixens". The third song, "Born unto Fire and Passion" is a beautyfully crafted instrumental, blending piano, violin, and guitar; it's very atmospheric and emotional. This song is a gateway to the song "The Warrior Princess", which is a tale about the great Xenia. Usually, songs of this type tend to be cheesy, but this song prevails. Why?? The chorus (again) grabs you by the neck and doesn't let go. Very fast-paced rhythm guitar is the backbone of this song. It rocks!! Title track "Beware the Heavens" displays in full force what SINERGY are capable of. Mood, tempo, range, solo guitar, rhythm...it all comes together and kicks your ass. The art work features a hooded sorcerer, surrounded by all kinds of animals (are they safe or dying??). The sky is scorched purple and black, creating a very apocalyptic and doomish scene. The packaging is cleverly tinted in all purple, matching the art work. SINERGY really delivers top notch power-metal the way it should be!!!

RATING: 9/10

HALLOWEEN "Victims of the Night" Re-release Molten Metal USA, 1997

This is an American band from MI that has been around since the early/mid 80's. Their style of metal is classic guitar work and mid ranged evil & high pitched vocals. Opening tracks "Intro/Welcome" suck you into a world of darkness and evil presented by HALLOWEEN. A very distinct drum sound is heard, almost electric. One particular song, "Rest in Piece" really displays the bands full potential, with a KILLER guitar intro that leads into the main riff of the song. The liner notes of the album suggest that local news & stories make good song ideas. As seen in the lyrics...

I CAN SEE YOU LYING IN THE GROUND BEYOND THE GATES

I'VE WITNESSED VIOLENCE AND I'VE SEEN THE ONES YOU HATE

THEY CUT YOU, THEY BEAT YOU, RAPED YOU IN YOUR GRAVE

THEY LET YOU DIE, WATCHED YOU SCREAM, ON THAT BLOODY DAY

Other songs, such as "Love 'Em and Lose 'Em" take a look at relationships...you know, getting dumped and all that fun shit. "Children of the Witches" has a REALLY good pace & beat. The chorus is extremely catchy & holds your attentions right down to the last note played. All in all, this album KICKS ASS!!! Go get it...you won't regret it!!

RATING: 9.3/10

NUFUTURECOWBOYS "Psyco Mind" Demo

This was something new...to me anyway. At first glance, I felt that this album would be different. The cover art alone KICKS ASS. Standing in all her glory is a female alien. Face like an angel, body like...well, something gross. Appearing to be growing out of her back is a fetus-like alien, holding a gun. They are surrounded by kneeling skull-faced baby aliens holding knives, which are pointed downward. WOW!!! This got my attention. I anxiously placed the CD into my sterio, and waited for the music to play. After several listens, my taste for this album grew, as I was VERY skeptical about what I first heard. Allow me to explain...

Track one, "Psyco Mind" starts off with a really aggressive and fast drum solo, which then blasts into a heavy guitar riff. The vocals are in vein of PANTERA meets SLAYER, yet somewhat on the distorted side. It seemed that this album would be EVERYTHING I hated about "trendy metal". Boy, was I wrong. Further listens showed me the whole aspect of the band.

"Body of Evidence" shows a cleaner sounding vocalist, still delivering with the same aggresion in the opening song. After all the aggresion starts to slow down a bit, BAM!!! You get this amazing guitar solo. I'm talking JUDAS PRIEST (Jugulator era)/BLITXKRIEG-ish leads, such as the ones on track 4, "Sludge" and on track 7, "Down".

I'll admit, I'm still warming up to this album, but it really has gotten my attention. Fans of a more aggresive, heavier metal will LOVE this!!! Seven tracks total, "Psyco Mind" is a nice intro to this band. Watch for them on tour with BLITZKRIEG. Their website offers some mp3's, links, a bio, etc. Check these guys out!!!

NUFUTURECOWBOYS official website:

http://www.nufuturecowboys.com

RATING: 7.8/10

TEMPERED STEEL-"ESCAPE FROM EUTOPIA" Independent-1999(?)

At the second New Jersey Metalfest, I came across TEMPERED STEEL in an odd way. Everywhere I turned, I saw, what was probably some of the band members, people wearing TS tshirts. Just by the name of this band, I knew the music would be in the power/old-school metal vein that we all love. Seeing TEMPERED STEEL perform was amazing. They kicked ass, and after their set, myself and 2 other metalheads (who were complete strangers to me) ran out to the merchandise table and purchased their album. Then, things begain to change...

At first glance, this album is obviously an independent release, seeing no record label mentioned, and the worst part: no song titles at all!!! I remembered how great this band was on stage, and was anxious to hear the entire album. I must admit, at first listen, this album seemed a bit rough for me. Production isn't all that good, but hey...this is a self-financed album. Listening to it, I had no recollection of what I heard on stage. It was as if I had an album of a completely different band with me. So, acting in a VERY closed-minded way, I gave up on this recording. Collecting dust on my Cd shelf, "Escape..." became a forgotten gem in my music collection. It wasn't until recently, when I saw the band play again, that I realized something. Power & potential isn't born overnight, and this band was 10 times better the second time around. How??? If they were so good before, and now better this time, why can I not get into their CD. I was curious & wanted answers. During their set at Metal Meltdown III, I took notes of the mentioned songs they performed. Dejavu...anxiously, I go home and try their CD...AGAIN. This time, I used what I recollected from the show, and my notes to try and find those GREAT songs I heard. Well, "Escape..." turns out to be a concept album, based on alien invasion, and mankind's will to resist such forces. The first song is pretty good, but about the first one fourth of the album seemed boring to me. Then, there was the song I remembered, "Escape from Eutopia", which has a very exotic intro, and some good metal screams and melodies. The very next track, "(name escapes me...)" has a very IRON MAIDEN feel to it. It is a long, epic song about the first conscience interaction with the aliens. The time signatures are incredible, and the band really shines through on this song. It seems that after all of the beginning, this album becomes gradually faster, and better. Maybe that's the way the band wanted it...who knows. In any case, nothing new is presented here, but TEMPERED STEEL is a true top heart metal band, and put on an incredible live show (no theatrics like MAIDEN, but energy...LOTS of energy). Pick up this album...it's an experience.

RATING: 6.8/10

BALISTIK KICK-"WARHEAD"-Independent Release-1997

BALISTIK KICK is a great metal band from New Jersey. Throughout their career, they have released a total of 3 albums to date, the first being sold-out, and this one, "Warhead", being their second. Opening track, "Warhead" grabs you and takes you for an intense ride, filling your ears with classic-sounding metal. B.K. doesn't refer to themselves as "Epic power/true metal", and they don't have any 8 or 10 minute songs. They are simpily a bone-crunching metal band; straight and to the point. "Twilight's Last Gleaming", the album's second track, has a VERY catchy chorus & some killer guitar solos, courtesy of Mike Marino. Decent in length, WARHEAD is a good metal album to experience. Additional info. on BALISTIK KICK can be found in the INTERVIEWS section, revealing all there is to know about this band.

RATING:8/10

ANGELES DEL INFIERNO-"LO MEJOR DE:1984-1993"-WEA Latina Records-1997

A.D.I. (Angels from Hell) is probably one of the best kept secrets in metal today. Almost everyone I've mentioned this band to has looked at me with confusion. Who is that? What do they sound like? Well...

To make a VERY long story short, A.D.I. was started in the early 80's (around 1984) & their sound is in vein of early Judas Priest, British Steel era. High pitched, screaming vocals, soaring guitar melodies...it's all there. Only thing is, all their songs are sung in Spanish, so you really can't understand what they're singing about. However, that is not important, because once you listen to the passion and power behind this music, you FEEL their energy & emotion. The fast-paced opening track "Maldito Sea Tu Nombre" ("Damned Be Your Name") display A.D.I.'s abilities and musicianship all too well! Slower paced songs "Pensando en Ti" & "Jugando al Amor" ("Thinking of You" & "Playing with Love") show the band's softer side, yet still keeps that crunch & raw power that this band is known for. With a pending interview soon to be added to this site, A.D.I. is a force to be reconed with. Discover them for the first time with this album, or venture down memory lane. Either way, you are destined for a great experience.

RATING: 9/10

HELLOWEEN-"THE DARK RIDE"-NuclearBlast USA-2000

HELLOWEEN: simply stated, a VERY established name from the German metal scene. Each and every album this band puts out makes a clear statement. From "Walls of Jericho", "The Keeper..." albums, and now "The Dark Ride", a well rounded HELLOWEEN fan can come to expect greatness from such a talented band. This is why after listening to "The Dark Ride", I am perplexed...to a VERY high degree. Opening track "Mr. Torture" didn't really grab my atention like I felt it should have. I wasn't blown off my seat, and I felt disappointed as I skipped ahead to the next song. Again, the same problem existed. It wasn't until "Escalation 666" that my ears perked up & I heard the trademarks that distinguish HELLOWEEN from other bands. "If I Could Fly", the band's single & sixth song on the album, was a bit catchy & had some very nicely placed keyboard work in it. "The Departed Sun is Going Down" starts off sounding like a NINE INCH NAILS song...what are you people thinking!!!??? After that eekish intro, the song does persist to become better, but still, HELLOWEEN is a METAL band, NOT an industrial band!! The closing song, "The Dark Ride" is a damn good song, I must say! Great guitar melodies, and everything else that makes this band what they are. All in all, I expected A LOT more from this album. After all, the band hadn't written anything original since 1997, when "Better Than Raw" was released. After having such a long time to write, why was T.D.R. such a let-down? Well, maybe next time. Put this one back in the oven...it's still raw (maybe that's why it's predicesor was given its name...LOL).

RATING: 6/10

HOLOCAUST-"THE COURAGE TO BE"-Neat/Edgy Records-2000

Yes, this is the NEW HOLOCAUST album, and it is absolutely awesome!! The opening track, "The Collective" starts out with some fast-paced acoustic guitar & then plays into John Mortimer's roaring scream while changing time signature & adding heavy electric guitar. WOW!!! Deep, intillectual lyrics make up most of this album, and even a funny side of the band is displayed with "Spanner Omlette". This entire album comes together as a total working unit...from start to finish. Listen to it & see for yourself. Recommended!

RATING: 9/10

DI'ANNO-"NOMAD"-Perris Records-2000

Having a MUCH better sound than the previous PANTERA-ISH album (Menace To Society), "NOMAD" is a very wel rounded album. Complete with a new line-up, Mr. DiAnno jumps right into his metallic onslaught with "Mad Man In The Attic". WOW! He's back, old-school IRON MAIDEN style!!! Each and every track afterward has the same thing to say: I'm F*#king back!!! Amist all this geatness, I have but only two complaints; one being small, and one being major!!!

One: "Cold War" is a great song, but doesn't it remind you of something you've heard before? That's right, it has the same exact time signature as FIGHT's "Into the Pit". With that said, I wonder why Mr. Di'Anno would use someone elses idea. He's much more talented than to use outside material!

Two: The last song, "Dog Dead" is just...well, BAD!!! He kind of starts rapping!!!! WHY??!!! This doesn't belong at all!!! I hope the record company forced him into making this song, because it's NOT good, and it's in no way ANY kind of representation of Mr. Di'Anno's talent! EEKK!!!!

Overall this album is a phenomenal release, and I reccomend it, but the previously mentioned 2 songs need work...no, the first one needs a new time signature, and the second one needs to go!!

RATING: 7.5/10

LABYRINTH-"Sons of Thunder"-Metal Blade/Pick Up Records-2000

Each and every LABYRINTH album I purchase never seems to let me down. "Sons of Thunder" is related to the storylines and songs on the EP "Timeless Crime", associating the song "Save Me" and the EP's album cover (now it makes sense). SOT is like the album "No Limits", where an entire story is told. This time, a king is obsessed with the portrate of a beautyful woman, named Katherine. He sends a tracker to hunt her down & bring her to him. This tracker falls in love with Katherine, and decides to disobey the king, setting her free after revealing to her his feelings. The album closes with "Miles Away", taken from "No Limits", which is a great tie-in to the story, showing how each of LABYRINTH's songs can stand in the story, or by themselves. Songs such as "Save Me", "Touch the Rainbow", and "Sons of Thunder" once again display LABYRINTH's amazingly strong musicianship and capability to attract their listeners. However, "Save Me" on the Timeless Crime EP was 50 times better than this one...what happened???? Some songs do seem a bit filler, but then again, no one is perfect. Recomended.

RATING: 7

SLEEPY HOLLOW "A Legend Retold", Old Metal Records (Re-Released) 2000

Just by looking at this album (re-released on classic vinyl!!), I could tell it was gonna kick some MAJOR ass. Seriously, there have been many times for us all when we have purchased a metal album with a killer album cover, thinking it was gonna kick ass. After listening, you discover it absolutely SUCKS!! This is NOT the case here. On this cover, we see an elderly man, sitting on a chair in deep thought while smoking his pipe. The surroundings seem Old English or Victorian. He looks like the type of "story-teller" that sat among bards and told stories around a fire.

The music is tight...extremely tight. Old school metal at its finest here, with that distinguishable bass/drum beat that makes you pound your fist along to every note. Killer guitar riffs open the album's first track "Hypnosis", which remeinds me of IRON MAIDEN "Killers" era, as far as melodies are concerned. The lyrics absloutely rule...

"Fallen under my spell Power is calling your mind Don't let it slip away...

Deeper now you will fall Echoing for my call Ringing within your brain"

Vocalist Bob Mitchell really puts enthusiasm behind every note...almost like the events he sings about are happening to him. The melodies are played at the right moments, which add a distinctive atmosphere to the songs. Four tracks in all, this EP serves as a quencher 'till the next SLEEPY HOLLOW LP :(sorry, but the name sliped my mind). That is my only complaint...I wanted to hear MORE!!! Highly recomended!

RATING: 9.5/10

** This gem is for sale through Old Metal Records. Information on how to purchase can be found on the UNSTOPPABLE FORCE MESSAGE BOARD **

HAMMER'S RULE "After The Bomb" (Web/Pentagram) 1984/85

It's amazing how many bands come and go over the years. Every time you turn around, there's some new metal band showcasing its talent, or simpily sucking in the worst way. I discovered HAMMER'S RULE in a cut-out bin, and I had NO idea who they were and what they sounded like. Among all these forgotten bands, HAMMER'S RULE is one of the most over-looked. This is true, old-school power metal. The vocalist can hit some Bruce Dickenson high range notes at tines, but other than that, this vocalist is in a style all of his own. The music is in vein of METAL CHURCH and IRON MAIDEN (Killers era). My only complaint is that this is an EP; only four songs!! If you happen to spot this treasure, by all means, pick it up!! You won't regret it.

RATING: 9/10

LABYRINTH "No Limits" (Arise Records) 199?

In case anyone hasn't heard of LABYRINTH, they're a six-piece power/prog metal band from Italy, and they kick some major ass. Just to give a little band history, LABYRINTH was prevoiusly fronted by Fabio Lione, whom is currently in RHAPSODY. This album does feature Fabio on vocals, and is a very well written concept album. The story is about an immortal God who falls in love with a mortal woman. Because of this, he is denied heaven, and is completely unforgiven. As a further penance, he is forever seperated from her, unable to find her. It's a very evenly balanced album, complete with fast melodic songs, and beautyful & emotional ballads. I really cannot point out any stand-out songs because each one is exceptionally written and performed. Although keyboards are used throughout the album, LABYRINTH's sound does not, in any way, shadow the likes of DREAM THEATER. Simpily put: not too much & not too little. The guitar work is flawless and does not drag in any way. If you are a fan of metal, you should have this album.

RATING: 10/10

GOTHIC KNIGHTS "Kingdom Of The Knights" (Sentinel Steel) 1999

One thing you simpily cannot deny S.S. Records is the fact that their packaging is absolutely superb! This small, rising label puts most major record labels to shame. Now, with that said, K.O.T.K. is a good, power metal release. Opener, "At Dawn You Die" is probably the best song on the album. Other songs like "Keeper Of The Gate" just drag and are boring. A re-recorded version of their older song "War In The Sky" is average. Nothing new here; galloping guitars and soaring vocals. Any fan of JUDAS PRIEST, MAIDEN, and early SAVATAGE will enjoy this album. A good cover of PRIEST's "The Ripper" is showcased. It would be interesting if GOTHIC KNIGHTS added a second guitarist. This would add a better sounding element to their music. Hail GOTHIC KNIGHTS for keeping the torch of classic metal alive and remembered.

RATING: 6/10

AGENT STEEL-Omega Conspiracy-1999-Candlelight

Some people might not even know who AGENT STEEL are. Allow me to recap what you might have missed. AGENT STEEL's first vocalist (the Legendary John Cyriss)was very distinguishable,for his vocals were very high pitched and very powerful. Playing a style of Speed/Thrash/Power metal, AGENT STEEL released two records and an EP in the mid-late 80's (albums were Skeptics Apocalypse and Unstoppable Force,respectivley, and the EP was Mad Lucust Rising). When Cyriss decided that he wanted to move the band to Florida(from Claifornia),only drummer Chuck Profus went, and AGENT STEEL broke up...UNTIL NOW! AGENT STEEL has reunited and put out "The Omega Conspiracy" with vocalist Bruce Hall taking the position Cyriss once had. Bruce Hall sings just like John Cyriss but he also sings a lower,angrier sounding vocal. Hall seriously sounds like Bruce Dickinson on steroids. Songs like "Know Your Master" and "Into the Nowhere" show how singer Bruce Hall can really hit the higher notes and they showcase the lower end of his voice as well. The music sounds just like AGENT STEEL did on their classic earlier material. Imagine a CIRITH UNGOL with faster music and throw in the melody of HELLOWEEN. The lyrics are mainly unchanged as well,dealing with space,unknown consipacies,and other extra-terestrial topics. The lyrics are kick ass. Pick this album up, along witht their older material which have been nicley re-issued by Century Media Records. The booklet provide more information about this legendary force,written by Sentinel Steel Records owner Denis Gulbey. Prepare yourself...you are about to discover one of America's best kept secrets. That, in itself, is a conspiracy

RATING-9/10

CRIMSON GLORY-Astronomica-1999-Spitfire

Crimson Glory is BACK...but without Midnight (the original vocalist on the bands first 3 records). So why bother picking this album up? Simple! New vocalist Wade Black, who fills Midnight's shoes nicely with his own vocal techniques. Black comes off sounding like Tim "Ripper" Owens, Bruce Dickinson,and a bit of Midnight. The vocals add an aggressive feel to the music,adding more feeling to the album. The playing style of the rest of the band is still very strong, in the vein of Judas Priest and Iron Maiden(you've gotta love the twin guitar attack).The lyrics almost parallel AGENT STEEL,mainly being about the same things (extra-terestrial,conspiracy,and other things along this line of thought). Tracks like "War of the Worlds","Astronomica" and "New World Machine"are proof that Mr Black is the right man for the job. The haunting sequel to " Lost Reflection" called "The Other Side of Midnight" is a very nice touch. Amongst the bad band reunions of the past CRIMSON GLORY reigns supreme, bringing the hammer down on all the bogus reunions of the past. Welcome back.

RATING-8/10

PEGAZUS-Breaking the Chains-1999-Nuclear Blast

DAMN IT! Wings of Destiny wasn't all that great...but come on! That was still a decent power metal album. BE FOREWARNED.....THIS ALBUM SUCKS!!!!! AVOID IT LIKE THE PLAGUE! MAN-O-WARish themes hat just don't work all that great here are what ruin this album. What a shame...this band had potential. On the other hand there are two things that are good about this album...the production and the two hotass metal chicks inside the booklet...THATS IT!

RATING-2/10

STORMWITCH-Priest of Evil-????-B.O. Records(?)

A very interesting band history briefing is presented, along with a discography. All tracks include the album that they were taken from, and the production on all of them is pretty good. Sadly, this is the only way to obtain these songs on this album . For those of you wo don't know, STORMWITCH plays a style of medeval/ black romantic metal. Themes of the lyrics on this album are pure fantasy (withches,elves,and forgotten tales are all covered here). Some tunes may remind you of early IRON MAIDEN (Johnathan's Song) while others show their differentiating qualities that made them stand out from the rest. A great way to learn about this band, or perhaps for the lucky few, a nice stroll down STORMWITCH's memory lane. Check it out, you won't regret it.

RATING-8.5/10

ZANDELLE-Shadows of Reality-????-unsigned

Having a pending record deal in the works with SENTINEL STEEL RECORDS,ZANDELLE have really come a long way. Tracks like "Bringer of Doom" , "Soul of Darkness", and "Creature of the Dark" showcase singer/basist George Tsalikis's vocals nicely. Very reminiscent of Michael Kiske era HELLOWEEN. The music is tight, in the vein of MAIDEN, HELLOWEEN, and LIEGE LORD. Keep your eyes on this band,because they are one of America's best offerings into the Power Metal genre.

RATING-8/10

Playlist (March 2001)

• ANGEL DUST: Enlighten the Darkness
• SLEEPY HOLLOW: A Legend Retold
• STORMWITCH: The Beauty And The Beast
• HOLOCAUST: The Courage To Be
• WITCHFYNDE: The Best Of
• HALLOWEEN: Victims of the Night
• MANILLA ROAD: Atlantis Rising