МУЗИКА

The second full-length studio album by German Symphonic Power Metal band, formed by legendary guitarist, ex-member of Rage, Lingua Mortis Orchestra, etc.
The Symphonic Metal Powerhouse are back with sophomore release – and you simply will not hear a better Power Metal album that year!
It takes true talent to deliver a consistent Symphonic Power Metal album without dipping into trite tendencies or mawkish sentimentality, but Almanac have managed it with ease, and considering the talent at work here, that should come as no surprise.
Guitar-god Victor Smolski’s reputation speaks for itself and his ridiculously high standards are maintained throughout "Kingslayer". Seemingly unleashed from previous tethers, his work here borders on genius and these compositions astonish while still hitting you square in the gut with supreme Metal heaviness. Each track has more melodies than you’d think you can handle, more moments of pure theatricality than thought possible (without once stepping over into full ‘cheese’ territory) and, most importantly, at least one massive, ground-shaking riff that’ll make you want to start a mosh with your nearest and dearest.
It’s not just Victor who shines of course. Much should be said about the outstanding vocals on "Kingslayer" and while enlisting three (count ’em, three!) vocalists in the shape of Andy B. Franck (Brainstorm, ex-Ivanhoe), David Readman (Pink Cream 69) and Jeannette Marchewka (Lingua Mortis Orchestra) may suggest overkill, the layering and meticulous juxtapositioning of all 3 voices works seamlessly throughout, aiding the storytelling and providing a strong sense of grandeur befitting the sub-genre.
Unsurprisingly, there’s a concept to "Kingslayer", involving real life historical figures, kings and queens, etc. 
This album slays, and you don’t have to be a fan of Rage, Helloween or any other Power Metal band, who’ve attempted and, occasionally, managed to deliver Power Metal perfection. You just need to love Metal of the purest kind, and with "Kingslayer", Almanac have quite probably delivered your Metal album of the year! Bombastic, effervescent and utterly-utterly brilliant!!
Limited Edition to 500 copies 180g double Golden Vinyl in gatefold cover.
Nuclear Blast GmbH/Cargo Records Germany GmbH, 2017 (NBCLP 4070-1). Made in Germany. First press.


Tracklist:

Side A
Song 1. Regicide 6:10
Song 2. Children Of The Sacred Path 4:10
Song 3. Guilty As Charged 5:02

Side B
Song 1. Hail To The King 5:47
Song 2. Losing My Mind 5:33

Side C
Song 1. Kingslayer 1:33
Song 2. Kingdom Of The Blind 6:22
Song 3. Headstrong 6:11

Side D
Song 1. Last Farewell 5:01
Song 2. Red Flag 5:05

Total playing time: 51:14 min.

The debut full-length studio album by German Symphonic Power Metal band of legendary guitarist, ex-member of Rage, Lingua Mortis Orchestra, etc.
Formed by Victor Smolski after his departure from Rage, Almanac is a continuation of his work with the Lingua Mortis Orchestra.
Victor Smolski's style has been well established throughout his years with German Metallers Rage. Now he has felt it necessary to bring his stylings to the world of Symphonic Power Metal - under the moniker of Almanac. However, in actuality, "Tsar" ends up sounding more like the quirky, heavy riffs of Rage, with a few strings added to beef up the melodies of the riffs. Although this was recorded with a real orchestra - expect nothing like Rhapsody or Fairyland. What you can expect is some damn fine, riff-heavy, Progressively-tinged Power Metal done the way only a German can!
Fans of standard Power Metal fare will find plenty to enjoy beyond the crushing riffs of Smolski. There are points were the orchestra add a real stylistic flair - giving us an extra dimension to aurally examine. The melodic choruses are irresistible. There really is no stinker here, nothing reigns in the energy, and nothing treats the listener like a dullard. These are all smart, vibrant, enjoyable anthems for real music-lovers.
The production quality is top-notch. Every instrument, from the highest string right down to the rumbling bass guitar is allowed a moment to breathe. The bass becomes especially prominent in the sparse verses, where its tonic note brings an aura of true menace. 
"Tsar" is indeed a splendid record. Even if Symphonic Power Metal is the section of the record store that you're most unfamiliar with, "Tsar" will inspire you to get acquainted with it! Yet even beyond genre criteria, Almanac is a band that finds strength in the most organic of ingredients and churns them into pure Metal!!
Nuclear Blast Records, 2016 (NB 3576-1). Made in Germany. First press. Gatefold 2x LP / 45 RPM.


Tracklist:

Side A
1. Tsar 7:48
2. Self-Blinded Eyes 6:00

Side B
3. Darkness 1:17
4. Hands Are Tied 5:48
5. Children Of The Future 5:19

Side C
6. No More Shadows 8:19
7. Nevermore 4:42

Side D
8. Reign Of Madness 6:31
9. Flames Of Hate 6:35

Total playing time: 52:19 min.

American edition of the debut full-length album by the cult German Hard ‘n’ Heavy band.
Victory was a band that should have become a household name in the United States but just never quite made it to the top. Even though they had a great career in Europe, the audience in the U.S.A. was never quite as accepting.
After releasing their successful self-titled debut album in 1985, they came back even stronger with “Don’t Get Mad… Get Even” and released the single “The Check’s in the Mail”. The song immediately charted and became a huge radio hit and the future looked bright for this band full of talented musicians.
Consisting of Herman Frank (Accept) on guitar, Charlie Huhn on vocals, Tommy Newton on guitar, Peter Knorn on bass, and Fritz Randow on drums, Victory proved to be as formidable as anyone on the circuit.
It’s still a mystery why this band is not mentioned alongside some of the mainstays of the “hair band” time period. If you were one of the fans who got “on board” back in the 80’s, you know what to expect with this re-release! If you are new to Victory and “Don’t Get Mad… Get Even”, you are in for a surprise, as this hard-edged, 80’s style Rock 'n' Roll will be an easy listen!!
Mercenary Records, 1987 (MER 2105). Made in USA. First American press. Still Sealed.


Tracklist:

SIDE ONE
1. Check's In The Mail 4:06 
2. Are You Ready 3:15 
3. Not Me 3:34 
4. Arsonist Of The Heart 4:01 
5. Hit And Run 3:30

SIDE TWO
6. She's Back 3:33 
7. Turn It Up 3:38 
8. Seven Days Without You Make Me Weak 3:58 
9. Sneaking Out 4:31 
10. Running Wild 3:47

Total playing time: 37:53 min.

The debut full-length studio album by Spanish Death/Doom/Folk Metal one-man band.
The Ethnic Doom/Death Folk Metal project of Nacho Hernández from Madrid was formed in 2007 with the basic idea to mix various Metal and Rock styles with Ethnic Folk music. In 2009 he released the EP “Templo” and 4 years later he returns with his first full-length album.
“Un Ocaso Trascendente” is a very experimental work and a really difficult to describe the album. Compared to the raw and somehow amateur sound of “Templo“, now there is a huge improvement sound-wise, especially in the Metal instruments, since the Folk acoustic parts were already very good.
There are 8 songs in the album, with a total duration a little over 37 minutes, including a beautiful cover of the song “Amatevi” from the world Ethnic-Electronica Sicilian band Agricantus. There are also many guest musicians in this album on bass, drums, flutes, acoustic guitars and vocals, making Vihmana’s sound more rich and natural. The music is very variable and each song is totally different from the other. Nacho Hernández combines middle-Eastern, oriental and Latin music with Folk Black/Death Metal, Progressive and Classic Rock, Soundtrack music and Doom Metal. He doesn’t try to play everything at once, but he prefers to move from one genre to the other. Vocal lines are also very variable, changing from brutal growls and clean Metal singing to rRock style and Folk vocals, according to the demands of each song. This is a very ambitious and difficult experiment and the risks of sounding somehow “random” were big. Luckily (and skillfully) ”Un Ocaso Trascendente” has a very strong atmosphere that keeps all these separate pieces together. Of course, their music is difficult to “digest” and you must give it more time before you fully comprehend it. The lyrics are again in Spanish and if you understand the language, you can read them in the booklet.
Vihmana is a very special band and their music is quite bizarre and unusual to categorize. Their new album is more mature, rich and better produced that the debut EP. This could be a very interesting listening for fans of Folk Experimental Metal and for other listeners as well, since it covers a great range of influences!
Nooirax Producciones, 2013 (NOAX-41). Pressed in Spain. First press.


Tracklist:
1. Un ocaso 
2. Al alba inhumana 
3. Caminante del sueño 
4. Alminar 
5. Hasta nuestra completa aniquilación 
6. El rumbo de nadie 
7. Monzón 
8. Amatevi (Agricantus cover)
Total playing time: 37:10 min.


Samples: https://nooirax.bandcamp.com

Debut full-length album by the Italian Black/Death/Doom Metal band.
Brooding and sinister Black Metal with Dark atmosphere & a dirty Rock 'n' Roll edge!
For fans of Carpathian Forest!!
Black Plague Records/Metallic Media, 2014 (BPR034 / METALLIC 039). Made in USA.


Tracklist:
1. Ode To Qayin 06:20
2. Chalice With Blood Poisoned by Snake Bite 06:02
3. Exequias Itinera 05:58
4. In Utero Matris 08:08
5. Drakon 07:10
6. Meta Stasis - Carcinogenic Cell 07:02
7. Descending the Abyss 08:58
Total playing time: 49:38


Samples: http://divisionviii.bandcamp.com
https://soundcloud.com

Debut full-length album by Spanish Viking Death Metal band.
Hailing from Sevilla, the band’s debut album is a good, solid release that fans of Pagan Metal will enjoy. Plenty of guttural screams, driving guitars, and unforgettable song titles to complete your listening experience. Angel’s vocals are deep, growling, and mean, but still audible enough to hear the lyrics, which are also pretty good. His speaking part before "The Undead’s Rising" was borderline demonic. Awesome to say the least. Rhythmically they are pretty damn good. Bass work is closely tied to the drum work, which is good.
The album is good, and the band has plenty of potential for the next album to be great. Some standout tracks are "The Witchery", "The Undead’s Rising" and "Red Fog".
Highly recommended for fans of Amon Amarth!!
Noisehead Records, 2013 (NHR0213). Made in Austria. First press.


Tracklist:
1. The Wrath     05:22 
2. Ymmir's Disembowelment     03:28 
3. Justice's Fall     04:59 
4. Feasting Upon the Butchered     03:46 
5. The Witchery     06:36 
6. The Undead's Rising     03:27 
7. Forgotten by the Gods     05:34 
8. Red Fog     02:34 
9. Wolves’ Wisdom     05:33
Total playing time: 41:19


Samples:  https://soundcloud.com

The third full-length studio album by vocalist of legendary American Hard Rock/Glam Metal band Mötley Crüe.
It is his first solo release in 7 years since the live album "Live At The Whisky: One Night Only" in 2003 and first solo studio album in 15 years since 1995's "Carved In Stone". It is also Neil's first solo studio album as the current lead singer of Mötley Crüe. "Tattoos And Tequila" was recorded with current Slaughter members Jeff Blando (guitar), Dana Strum (bass) and drummer Zoltan Chaney.
The album is largely made up of covers of 1970s Rock songs, with only a couple of original tracks thrown in: the title track "Tattoos & Tequila", written by Marti Frederiksen, which was released as the first single, and "Another Bad Day", written by Nikki Sixx, James Michael and Tracii Guns. Neil described the album has having "nothing to do with Mötley Crüe... "Tattoos And Tequila" is basically my life".
The album is a soundtrack to the book Vince released in the same year, "Tattoos & Tequila: To Hell and Back with One of Rock's Most Notorious Frontmen". Each song on the record corresponds with a chapter in the book.
As stated in an interview conducted with Nikki Sixx on Sixx Sense radio, the track, "Another Bad Day" was originally slated for Mötley Crüe, but was dropped, mainly due to the fact that drummer Tommy Lee hated the title of the song.
Although the excellent title track is what are going to draw people to the album it are the cover songs that are intriguing. Vince chose the songs because they influenced some part of his life and for the most part they aren’t the normal batch. Most of them are updated to sound very Crüe-ish as well, which isn’t a bad thing at all in this stage of the game. There are some kick-ass covers on "Tattoos And Tequila", for example a nice Rockin’ version of “He’s A Whore”, originally on Cheap Trick’s 1977 self-titled debut, and a cover of Sweet’s “AC/DC” that could have fit smack dab in the middle of "Dr. Feelgood". The excellent cover is of Elton John’s “The Bitch Is Back”, which closes the album. The song fits Vince’s voice perfectly and pretty much describes Vince’s antics over the years as well.
Overall, it’s better than we could have expected for a covers album and certainly worth the time and money if you’re a Mötley Crüe fan!
Eleven Seven Music/Frontiers Records s.r.l., 2010 (FR CD 463). Made in Italy. First press.


Tracklist:
1. Tattoos & Tequila 3:44
2. He's A Whore 2:49
3. Ac/Dc 4:08
4. Nobody's Fault 4:44
5. Another Bad Day 4:07
6. No Feelings 2:50
7. Long Cool Woman 3:27
8. Another Piece Of Meat 3:08
9. Who Will Stop The Rain 2:51
10. Viva Las Vegas 2:54
11. Bitch Is Back 3:48
12. Beer Drinkers And Hell Raisers (Bonus Track) 2:45
Total playing time: 41:15


Samples: http://www.last.fm

German true metal is still alive! Vinder play on their debut an old-school heavy metal style that combines thrash, true heavy and power metal elements! Featuring ex-members of German metal legends like Sinner and Tyran’ Pace! Mastered at the Prophecies studios in Germany by R.D. Liapakis (Mystic Prophecy, Valley’s Eve).
Sleaszy Rider Rec., 2005 (SR-0045)


Tracklist:
1.Dust to Dust 04:37
2.Demon's Hate 04:03
3.Trash of Society 03:57
4.F.U.C.K. This 04:46
5.Mr. Knowitall 04:13
6.Slave 03:55
7.Pandora's Box 03:46
8.TV Kid 04:55
9.Visions of Time 03:45
10.Whore Babylon 04:52
Total playing time: 42:49

Debut album from Brazilian raw and unprogressive Black Metal band in the vein of the old gods like BATHORY, CELTIC FROST/HELLHAMMER or DARKTHRONE, mixed with some thrashing influences and an unhealthy dose of south-american madness.
Featuring members of DARKEST HATE WARFRONT, LUX FERRE, MYSTERIIS and SONGE D'ENFER.
Comes as limited Digipak with different artwork & booklet! Artwork & layout by Marcelo HVC (Vader, Gorgoroth, Absu, Lord Belial etc.).
Ashen Productions, 2008 (AP017-D)


Tracklist:
1.Rising (Intro)/Dark Congregation 06:59
2.Blade's Blood Taste 05:35
3.Thy Almighty Pestilence 03:33
4.The New Light 04:36
5.Reign Ov Opposites 03:08
6.Wormkind Destruction 04:36
7.Imminent Chaos 03:26
8.Beyond the Night and Fog 05:42
9.Downfall (Outro) 00:37
Total playing time: 38:12

The second re-release of the debut full-length studio album by cult American Thrash Metal band.
Formed in 1985, Bay Area Thrashers from the Oakland, San Francisco have immortalized themselves in the Thrash Metal history books with just three albums. Vio-Lence helped define and refine what came to be known as the Bay Area sound.
And it all started with "Eternal Nightmare" in 1988, which was released through MCA Records' sublabel, Mechanic Records. A limited 10" Promo Single was released, featuring two tracks, "Eternal Nightmare" and "Phobophobia"; the release was quite unique, as it came in a "vomit pack", a sealed plastic cover containing fake vomit. Shortly after, Thrash Metal innovators Slayer released a Single in a similar format, but with fake blood, and Rock band The Revolting Cocks released a Single with fake semen.
"Eternal Nightmare" is widely regarded as a Thrash Metal masterpiece in the world of heavy music.
Remastered by Patrick Engel, re-edition features the original iconic cover art by Edward J. Repka, and Bonus CD with 12 additional live tracks, recorded at Slims, San Francisco, CA.
Metal Blade Records, 1988/2022 (3984-16018-2). Made in Germany. Pressed in Austria.


Tracklist:

Disc 1 “Eternal Nightmare”
1. Eternal Nightmare 6:11
2. Serial Killer 2:59
3. Phobophobia 6:31
4. Calling In The Coroner 3:55
5. T.D.S. (Take It As You Will) 5:04
6. Bodies On Bodies 5:47
7. Kill On Command 4:56
Playing time: 35:23 min.

Disc 2 “Live @ Slims SF 12/14/2001”
1. Liquid Courage 6:26
2. Ageless Eyes 4:23
3. Calling In The Corner 4:13
4. World In A World 4:54
5. Officer Nice 5:21
6. Subterfuge 4:45
7. Kill On Command 5:23
8. Phobophobia 6:38
9. Bodies On Bodies 7:39
10. I Profit 7:29
11. T.D.S. 5:27
12. Paraplegic 5:08
Playing time: 67:46 min.

Total playing time: 103:09 min.


https://vio-lence.bandcamp.com/

The first compilation album by cult American Thrash Metal band.
Vio-Lence formed in 1985 in the San Francisco Bay Area. The band is often credited as one of the leading lights of the second wave of the Bay Area’s Thrash Metal. This compilation covers their entire demo discography, as well as some live tracks.
Core members on this compilation are: Sean Killian - vocals, Phil Demmel - guitars (also Lamb Of God, ex- Slayer, ex- Overkill & ex- Machine Head live); Deen Dell - bass; Perry Strickland - drums (also ex- Exodus & Testament live); Troy Fua (guitar on first demo); Robb Flynn - guitars (also Forbidden Evil, Machine Head) on demo 1988. 
Restored and mastered by Patrick W. Engel at Temple of Disharmony (Sodom, Darkthrone, Sacred Reich). Partially remastered and restored by Achilleas Kalantzis (Varathron, Possessed). Cover art by Thomas Pinheiro (Malevolent Creation, Possessed, Paradox). The 16-page booklet includes extensive liner notes by Laurent Ramadier (Snake Pit Mag) and Phil Demmel, including many old and rare pictures.
CD 1:
Track 1: taken from "Eastern Front: Live at Ruthie's Inn" 1986;
Tracks 2-5: taken from "Rehearsal Demo" 1986;
Tracks 6-9: taken from "Demo - 1986";
Tracks 10-13: taken from "Rough Demo" 1988.
CD 2
Tracks 1-6: recorded live in Miami, FL, August 17th, 1988;
Tracks 7-9: taken from "Torgue" demo 1993.
VIC Records, 2023 (VIC262CD). Made in Netherlands. Pressed in Poland. First press.


Tracklist:

Disc 1
1. Gutterslut (live) 03:16
2. Eternal Nightmare (rehearsal) 07:15
3. Kill on Command (rehearsal) 05:12
4. Knocking at Death’s Door (rehearsal) 03:11
5. Out for Blood (rehearsal) 04:33
6. Eternal Nightmare (demo) 06:17
7. Kill on Command (demo) 05:06
8. Bodies on Bodies (demo) 06:01
9. Paraplegic (demo) 04:25
10. Eternal Nightmare (demo) 05:55
11. Paraplegic (demo) 04:11
12. Bodies on Bodies (demo) 05:51
13. Kill on Command (demo) 04:54
Playing time: 66:07 min.

Disc 2
1. Eternal Nightmare (live) 06:02
2. Serial Killer (live) 03:00
3. Calling in the Coroner (live) 03:59
4. Bodies on Bodies (live) 06:50
5. Kill on Command (live) 05:02
6. T.D.S. (live) 05:07
7. Breed (demo) 03:02
8. Again (demo) 03:46
9. Shooter (demo) 03:51
Playing time: 40:39 min.

Total playing time: min.

The first compilation album by cult American Thrash Metal band.
Vio-Lence formed in 1985 in the San Francisco Bay Area. The band is often credited as one of the leading lights of the second wave of the Bay Area’s Thrash Metal. This compilation covers their entire demo discography, as well as some live tracks.
Core members on this compilation are: Sean Killian - vocals, Phil Demmel - guitars (also Lamb Of God, ex- Slayer, ex- Overkill & ex- Machine Head live); Deen Dell - bass; Perry Strickland - drums (also ex- Exodus & Testament live); Troy Fua (guitar on first demo); Robb Flynn - guitars (also Forbidden Evil, Machine Head) on demo 1988. 
Restored and mastered by Patrick W. Engel at Temple of Disharmony (Sodom, Darkthrone, Sacred Reich). Partially remastered and restored by Achilleas Kalantzis (Varathron, Possessed). Cover art by Thomas Pinheiro (Malevolent Creation, Possessed, Paradox).
Limited Edition White Marbled Vinyl.
VIC Records, 2022 (VIC267LP-b). Made in Netherlands. First press.


Tracklist:

Side A - Demo 1988
1. Eternal Nightmare 6:17
2. Paraplegic 5:06
3. Bodies On Bodies 6:01
4. Kill on Command 4:25

Side B - Demo 1986
1. Eternal Nightmare 5:55 
2. Bodies on Bodies 4:11
3. Kill On Command 5:51
4. Paraplegic 4:54
5. Gutterslut (Live iat Ruthie’s Inn 1985) 3:16

Total playing time: 45:56 min.

The third EP by cult American Thrash Metal band.
Formed in 1985, Oakland Thrashers Vio-Lence helped define and refine what came to be known as the Bay Area sound, dropping three seminal albums before splitting in 1993.
Leaving behind a heady legacy, they reformed briefly a couple of times in the intervening years before becoming a full-time going concern once more in 2019.
After playing a string of successful shows, the quintet started to think about new music and in 2022 they deliver "Let The World Burn" – a five-song EP showcasing their first new material in 29 years, since their initial disbandment in 1994, which delivers on the classic Vio-Lence sound!
"Let the World Burn" is very much a continuation of their old works. Their song structures and approach are nearly the same as what they used to be in the 80s. The guys came up with a lot of new, original material that's still very true to the band's name, and nearly as vicious and ignorant as their early records. It's been a long while since a Thrash record this strong came out, and if you will buy just one Thrash album from 2022, you now know should be the one you pick up!!
Metal Blade Records, 2022 (3984-15825-2). Made in Germany. Pressed in Austria First press.


Tracklist:
1. Flesh From Bone 5:02
2. Screaming Always 5:24
3. Upon Their Cross 5:27
4. Gato Negro 3:44
5. Let The World Burn 5:10
Total playing time: 24:47 min.


https://vio-lence.bandcamp.com/

The third EP by cult American Thrash Metal band.
Formed in 1985, Oakland Thrashers Vio-Lence helped define and refine what came to be known as the Bay Area sound, dropping three seminal albums before splitting in 1993.
Leaving behind a heady legacy, they reformed briefly a couple of times in the intervening years before becoming a full-time going concern once more in 2019.
After playing a string of successful shows, the quintet started to think about new music and in 2022 they deliver "Let The World Burn" – a five-song EP showcasing their first new material in 29 years, since their initial disbandment in 1994, which delivers on the classic Vio-Lence sound!
"Let the World Burn" is very much a continuation of their old works. Their song structures and approach are nearly the same as what they used to be in the 80s. The guys came up with a lot of new, original material that's still very true to the band's name, and nearly as vicious and ignorant as their early records. It's been a long while since a Thrash record this strong came out, and if you will buy just one Thrash album from 2022, you now know should be the one you pick up!!
Release includes large poster and download card.
Metal Blade Records, 2022 (3984-15825-1). Made in Germany. First press.


Tracklist:

Side A
1. Flesh From Bone 5:02
2. Screaming Always 5:24
3. Upon Their Cross 5:27

Side B
4. Gato Negro 3:44
5. Let The World Burn 5:10

Total playing time: 24:47 min.


https://vio-lence.bandcamp.com/album/let-the-world-burn

The second and the final full-length studio album by German Melodic Death Metal band.
Melodic Death Metal from Gefrees, Bavaria, in the vein of early Dark Tranquillity, In Flames or early Entombed!
Recorded, mixed, and produced by Peter and Tommy Tägtgren at The Abyss Studio in Sweden.
Amazing production & brutal, powerful sound make this disc a complete winner!!
Red Stream, Inc., 2000 (RSR-0140). Made in USA. First press.


Tracklist:
1. A Shattered Blind 4:59
2. Downfall 5:51
3. Trapped In Chaos 4:46
4. Path Of Sorrow 2:12
5. Nightshades 4:59
6. Blood Flows Through The Haze Of Time 4:49
7. Mortal Divinity 3:27
8. The Angelmaker 5:04
9. New God Evolution 3:57
Total playing time: 40:06 min.

The sixth full-length album by the Brazilian Melodic Heavy/Power Metal band.
For delight of many fans, after a gap of about a decade, Viper is finally back with a revamped line up and twelve new songs.
Regarding the sound, "All My Life" as a typical Heavy Metal album, with elements present both in "Evolution" and "Theater Of Fate" and also some things that remember the early Angra, reaffirming the style that consecrated them with their earliest influences without fads or fancy experiments. It is like if we went back to 1996.
The singer Ricardo Bocci is a pleasant surprise, following the line of André Matos, with less technique and a slightly more aggressive tone. The instrumental part is based on regular Heavy Metal patterns, without annoying virtuosos but without striking riffs too. The bass and drums lines are consistent. The songs are cohesive, some very interesting with great melodies.
Viper released an album that would be interesting for a common band and not to one of the biggest Brazilian Metal bands...
Japanese edition includes bonus track!
Avalon/Marquee Inc., 2007/2008 (MICP-10737). Made in Japan. Used: very good.


Tracklist:
1. All My Life 3:46
2. Come On Come On 4:42
3. Miles Away 3:33
4. Not That Easy 4:21
5. Love Is All 6:55
6. Cross The Line 5:08
7. Do It All Again 3:48
8. Violet 4:44
9. Dreamer 3:59
10. Soldier Boy 2:51
11. Rising Sun 5:25
12. Miracle 4:28

Bonus Track:
13. Chains Of My Life 4:32
Total playing time: 58:12

The thirteenth full-length studio album by legendary American Heavy/Power Metal band.
Containing 14 tracks and clocking in at almost 80 minutes, "Nocturnes Of Hellfire & Damnation" certainly has a lot of material to digest. The band has managed to create an album that should offer something to please fans of their earlier work, as well as fans of the more recent darkened sounds.
With the release of "Visions Of Eden" in 2006, Virgin Steele had changed direction, playing a somewhat gloomy and melancholic style of Epic Metal. The album was keyboard heavy with guitars taking a back seat to the vocals and keys of David DeFeis. "The Black Light Bacchanalia" followed and offered the same style of music, but with guitars being far more prominent. "Nocturnes Of Hellfire & Damnation" comes 5 years after and changes things again. It is yet another great album to add to their already impressive discography.
Gone are the whispers of David DeFeis, sometimes barely audible on his last outing and right from the beginning you can hear some power and raw emotion with some spontaneous roars and screams thrown in. Tracks like "Lucifer's Hammer" and "Black Sun - Black Mass" would not be out of place on earlier heavier albums. Thankfully, the production has been improved, with all instruments being at least audible. In short, this album is definitely the heaviest since "The House Of Atreus Act II".
What can be one of the most impressive aspects of album, is a mix of older and newer styles. Around halfway through the album there is a rather noticeable change in direction. While the first half offers heavier and faster songs, the second half returns to the band's more recent style; mid-tempo, keyboard heavy and dreary. Fans of "Visions Of Eden" should really enjoy the second half of the album.
The band successfully achieved what they set out to do; create a collection of songs that offer a mix of Bluesy moments, moody chord changes, and monolithic riffs with new ideas. Each song stands alone instead of following an overall concept and there are genuine surprises within.
"Nocturnes Of Hellfire & Damnation" is not a complete return to the Epic Metal days of the mid to late 1990's where the band could simply do no wrong, nor is it a simple continuation of the darker sound of the 2000's. Higher tempo songs would have been great, but the compositional ability of David DeFeis is still as impressive as ever. Virgin Steele has been successful in creating an album that is a mix of styles, a bold direction and one that impresses further each time you'll listen to it!
Double Blue Vinyl in Gatefold Cover includes Bonus CD.
Steamhammer, a division of SPV GmbH, 2015 (SPV 268261 2LP). Made in Germany. First press.

 

Tracklist:

LP

Side one
1. Lucifer's Hammer 5:42
2. Queen Of The Dead 4:16
3. To Darkness Eternal 0:58
4. Black Sun - Black Mass 5:09

Side two
5. Persephone 7:28
6. Devilhead 5:22
7. Demolition Queen 8:20

Side three
7. The Plague And The Fire 6:29
8. We Disappear 7:54
9. A Damned Apparition 1:33
10. Glamour 5:20

Side four
11. Delirium 7:33
12. Hymns To Damnatio 6:55
13. Fallen Angels 6:05


CD

1. Lucifer's Hammer 5:42
2. Queen Of The Dead 4:16
3. To Darkness Eternal 0:58
4. Black Sun - Black Mass 5:09
5. Persephone 7:28
6. Devilhead 5:22
7. Demolition Queen 8:20
8. The Plague And The Fire 6:29
9. We Disappear 7:54
10. A Damned Apparition 1:33
11. Glamour 5:20
12. Delirium 7:33
13. Hymns To Damnation 6:55
14. Fallen Angels 6:05


Total playing time: 158:08 min.

The fifth full-length album by the Italian Power/Progressive Metal band.
Vision Divine is one of the best Italian Power/Progressive bands of the moment. The quality of their last albums was already high and the new one comes up to all expectations!
Since the release of “The Perfect Machine” (2005), the line-up of band has undergone some serious changes. Gone are bassist Andrea Torricini and keyboarder Oleg Smirnoff and they have been replaced by Cristiano Bertocchi and Alessio Lucatti respectively. With the addition of drummer Alessandro Bissa, Vision Divine is now a six piece. Did all these changes affect the sound of Vision Divine? Not really, as the main men are still founder-guitarist Olaf Thorsen (Labyrinth) and vocalist extraordinaire Michele Luppi.
The last two albums Vision Divine have released, were both concept albums and this brand-new one, which is called “The 25th Hour”, is the third in a row. Remember the man who had the leading role in “Stream Of Consciousness” (2004)? Well, the concept of the new album is based on the diary of that same man and it’s once again a strong piece of work!
With captivating songs, powerful guitars, a stunning voice and an excellent production, all elements are present to make this album stand out from others in the same genre. Without a doubt the band’s best effort to this date!!
Scarlet Records/Mystic Empire/Mazzar Records, 2007 (MYST CD 285). Made in Russia. Please note: although the CD is new and has never been played, there are light visual shabby on the disc surface, happened during transit, which will not affect the sound quality.


Tracklist:
1. My Angel Died     00:53 
2. The 25th Hour     05:34
3. Out of a Distant Night (Voices)     05:29 
4. Alpha & Omega     05:49
5. Eyes of a Child     04:59 
6. The Daemon You Hide     04:50 
7. Waiting for the Dawn     01:48 
8. Essence of Time     04:43 
9. A Perfect Suicide     05:21 
10. Heaven Calling     03:39 
11. Ascension     02:15
Total playing time: 45:20

The fourth full-length album by the Italian Power/Progressive Metal band.
Former Labyrinth guitarist Olaf Thorsen and his band Vision Divine have slowly built up a reputation as a solid Progressive/Power Metal band who had sort of a revolving door problem with members coming and going, causing the band to be referred to merely as a side project. Once Thorsen left Labyrinth for good to concentrate solely on Vision Divine, original vocalist Fabio Leone left to spend all his time with Rhapsody. In came vocalist Michele Luppi for 2004's "Stream Of Consciousness" on Metal Blade Records, and with that album the band seemed to solidify their line-up. 2005 sees the release of "The Perfect Machine" on Scarlet Records, and Thorsen, Luppi, guitarist Federico Puleri, keyboard player Oleg Smirnoff and bassist Andrea "Tower" Torricini (they have recently added a touring keyboard player and drummer), have put together a powerful concept album featuring soaring vocals and keyboard passages, progressive guitar playing, and memorable melodies!
The story centers on the year 2043, and revolves around a biologist named Arnaldo Mattei, whose work with gentic code and DNA leads to a discovery of a way to get genes to never stop regenerating and repairing themselves, ultimately leading the world towards a cure for all natural diseases. This results in immortality basically, creating what humans are now called, "the perfect machine". It's a neat story, and fans of these sort of complex concept piece will have fun following along with the lyrics.
Musically, this band is really finding their form, with guitars and keyboards sharing equal footing in the importance of the overall sound. The dual leads and harmonies from Thorsen and Puleri work really well together on songs like "Rising Sun" and "Ancestor's Blood", and although the riffs never get too heavy, they add enough power to the mostly symphonic arrangements. Vision Divine never go as overboard as Rhapsody does with the over the top Speedy & Symphonic arrangements, which is a good thing. What works so well here as well is the way that singer Luppi and keyboard player Smirnoff play off each others melodic strengths. Both absolutely soar on the lovely "Here In 6048", as Luppi's vocals, which remind of Michael Sadler of Saga meets former Styx singer Dennis DeYoung, reach for the stars alongside Smirnoff's majestic piano and synth stylings. The heaviest piece on the album is probably the raging Power Metal of "River", featuring pounding rhythms, chugging guitar riffs, and stabbing keyboard lines.
"The Perfect Machine" was produced by Timo Tolkki from Stratovarius, and for the most part is a pretty good sounding release. The album certainly more melodic, Symphonic and Progressive than many other releases in the genre. Those who like Sci-Fi/Fantasy Progressive Metal with tons of melody and Symphonic elements would be well advised to seek this out!!
Science-fiction and Prog-Power collide here to form yet another genre classic, and if you haven't heard it yet, go out and get it. Yet another work of art from one the genre's greatest bands!!!
Scarlet Records/Mystic Empire/Mazzar Records, 2005/2007 (MYST CD 286). Made in Russia. Please note: although the CD is new and has never been played, there are light visual shabby on the disc surface, happened during transit, which will not affect the sound quality.


Tracklist:
1. The Perfect Machine     07:58
2. First Day of a Never-Ending Day     06:13 
3. The Ancestor's Blood     05:53 
4. Land of Fear     04:25
5. God is Dead     05:21
6. Rising Sun     05:23
7. Here in 6048     06:32
8. The River     04:29
9. Now That You've Gone     05:59
Total playing time: 52:13

The fifth full-length album by Austrian Symphonic Gothic/Power Metal band.
The band revolving around the enchanting and strong-voiced front lady Maxi Nil did not rest on their laurels after releasing their heir successful album "Delta" and playing numerous concerts (e.g. Wacken Open Air, Novarock, Masters of Rock). Instead, the musicians focused on the songwriting sessions for a new longplayer. The mystical title "Ethera" stands for an extraordinary and diverse Symphonic Metal masterpiece and presents the listeners with bombastic orchestral tracks as well as touching and dreamy ballads. The band is a master in capturing these different moods and thus creating a tightly arranged album, that offers a magical atmosphere from the first to the last song. It is important to point out that the vocal performance of Maxi Nil and Mario Plank sounds so harmonic and sweeping, just like they were singing together from the very beginnings of the band's career. "Ethera" is a mythical and bombastic journey into the heart of Atlantis! Pick this up if you dig female fronted Metal bands, because this is one of the better releases available!!
The limited edition digipack includes bonus track!
Napalm Records, 2013 (NPR 444 CD). Made in Austria. Pressed in Germany. First press.


Tracklist:
1. The Ark     4:29
2. Machinage     3:32
3. Avatara     4:50
4. Vicious Circle     4:28
5. Hypnotized     4:20
6. Tlaloc's Grace     4:05
7. Burden Of Divinity     3:38
8. Cave Behind The Waterfall     3:52
9. A.E.O.N. 19th     4:09
10. Bestiality Vs. Integrity     4:35
11. Cleric's Emotion     5:14
12. Tlaloc's Grace (Orchestra Version)     4:10
Total playing time: 51:22