What a fantastic year 2011 has been; new friends, new adventures and most importantly new music. Lots of fantastic new bands, incredible live shows and much much more; keep your eyes peeled for my 'Introducing...' post that gives you information on the bands to keep a look out for in 2012. Anyways this will be my last post for this year; I wish you all a very merry Christmas and thank you all for the continuing support for this blog.
I shall leave you with some of my favourite Christmas songs.
Here is my top five live shows of 2011; 5. Jenna's Revenge @ The Joiners; Southampton 13/11/2011
This particular gig marked the long awaited return from Gosport hard rockers Jenna's Revenge; after Simon 'Sic' McLaren left the band in March this year it took the rest of Jenna's months to find a new vocalist. However Sic decided he missed Jenna's so much that he decided to make a return; me and best friend Becca were so excited for this that she made them a welcome back cake that I carried. Although note to self; think about transportation of the cake before hand. It was a fantastic show none the less; Sic's energetic stage antics, some classic rock and a very tasty cake made the evening perfect for the return of one of the southern coasts greatest rock bands. Find Jenna's Revenge on Facebook,Twitter and their official website
This for me was definitely one of the most anticipating local gigs I had been waiting since I bought the ticket a few months in advance; two of my new favourite bands of last year coming together to co-headline a UK tour. The venue was packed full of Southampton's rockers young and old, the bands all performing fantastic live sets and the general atmosphere was incredible. I would certainly say this was one of the best gigs of 2011. Find Heaven's Basement on Facebook, Twitter and their official website Find Jettblack on Facebook
It was incredibly tricky to choose a top two gigs but I have placed Turisas second place; it was such an incredible experience to become one with all the metal heads of Southampton that very evening and Turisas performed a fantastic live set that got the crowd pumping with excitement. Support acts Kiaus and Chtonic also performed well; possibly the best night of metal took place in Southampton and I enjoyed every second of it.
The Treatment's performance at The Joiners easily had to be my best live show of 2011; purely because their presence on stage was full of energy and passion, the atmosphere was exciting and interviewing them was one of the most amazing experiences of my music journalling so far. The Treatment certainly know how to please the crowd and they sound incredible live. They were all so friendly and they made me laugh; cannot wait to see them live again next year with Jettblack and Reckless Love. Find The Treatment on Facebook Here's to more fantastic live shows in the new year; there you have my top ten shows of 2011.
After watching The Treatment perform a fantastic live set at The Joiners, Southampton I was more than happy to interview them. It was a fantastic experience; was a little bit nervous at first but then I suddenly felt more relaxed as the interview progressed. I liked to think it was a new challenge to me; would love to thank The Treatment for taking some time to do the interview, particularly guitarist Ben Brookland for giving me some useful advice and Jodie Newman for arranging the interview. I would also like to apologise to drummer Dhani Mansworth for getting his name wrong at the very beginning; rookie error.
I have realised that I so far for the past three years I have made at least one trip to The Joiners at the end of the year so far; as I have mentioned in previous posts that The Joiners is in fact my favourite music venue in Southampton as a lot of Britain's best upcoming bands tend to perform at this venue. Tonight it was the turn of Cambridge hard rockers The Treatment to take the stage; The Treatment have been a great highlight in the music industry so I was really eager to see what their live performance would contain. I also found last night proved to be a fantastic life changing step in the terms of music journalling and I shall explain why later.
The first band to play were Delirium; who are a rock band from Dorset. I thought they were a very interesting opening act to pick for The Treatment since they had a more grungy sort of sound, a lot like an Alice In Chains I thought. I thought their set overall was fairly average; I might have to see them again, I think they may grow on me after a while. Find Delirium on Facebook and their official website Velvatine were next to play; young aspiring rockers from Hayling Island whose sound reminded me of Heaven's Basement jamming with AC/DC. They really gave it their all last night, their songs were great and they showed a lot of energy in their performance; I found they reminded me of a popular band at my secondary school years ago and it just made me feel really warm inside. I do hope to see and hear more from Velvatine in the near future. Find Velvatine on Facebook I was very happy when I had heard Western Sand had got the main support slot for the gig last night; I can honestly say here today I have seen them a number of times this year and last night was definitely their best show yet. I loved how they opened up with soundtrack music which I had never seen them do before until now and I think they really showed main support act material with the amount of energy they gave. They sounded fantastic too and I really do hope to see them in the new year very soon. Find Western Sand on Facebook and Twitter
For headliners The Treatment it was their first time playing in Southampton last night and was incredibly happy when they said they'll return. I had heard The Treatment's album This Might Hurt and really liked it, you'll see it's on my top ten albums of 2011, like I mentioned earlier I was really eager to see them live. What an amazing show it was; opening up with their single D****, F*****,F****** I could see it really got the crowds at The Joiners pumping. Playing other great songs such as Shake My Mountain, The Doctor and my personal favourite Just Tell Me Why to the utmost perfection and with so much passion I could definitely see why the Cambridge hard rockers bring such big crowds. I was also so stunned and excited when promoter and good friend Jodie Newman arranged an interview with The Treatment too, which you will see and hear in a later post, guitarist Tag Grey mentions in this certain interview they see themselves playing at Wembley Arena in five years time and after watching them last night I think so too. Find The Treatment on Facebook
Now it was a very tricky choosing the top five for this year but I have made the decision to cast these albums below as the top five.
5. The Treatment - This Might Hurt
Now I love this album a lot; the catchy guitar riffs, lead singer Matt Jones sounding like a dead ringer of Aerosmith legend Steve Tyler and some smashing tunes are the reasons why this album has made it into my top five. The Treatment as a band have been another highlight in my musical findings this year; first coming across them in Kerrang! and their music influences are what got me interested. Full of sexy husky vocals, slick guitar solos and songs you could just listen to again and again this album definitely has the whole package of a great rock album.
First hearing these guys via the song Porn Star Dancing featuring Nickelback frontman Chad Kroeger on vocals and guitar god Zakk Wylde playing a sick guitar solo I thought I'd have a listen to the album. It was much better than I was expecting; I did not see myself get drawn into their upbeat, catchy songs as quickly as I did for this album. It is an album I can listen and dance to again and again for sure.
When I heard Canadian rockers Theory Of A Deadman were to produce a new album for this year I was very excited; I loved their previous album Scars and Souvenirs so was very eager to find out what this album had to offer. I had very high hopes for the album when the single Lowlife was introduced, the song was on four to five times a day on my iPod when it was released. Was very happy with the final outcome of the album as the songs were just as amazing as Lowlife; including personal favourites Bitch Came Back and Hurricane. Looking forward to seeing them live again next year.
Dutch symphonic metallers did not surprise with a majestic new album that was released this year; I loved all the songs on this album and Sharon den Adel's voice is still very charming. They are also known for creating a variety of songs and this album is no exception; from the upbeat Faster to the heartfelt Lost. I still listen to this album again and again now, it really has made 2011 a great year. There's rumours of a film in the creating process from the band too; keep your eyes peeled.
The build up to this phenomenon has been incredible; for two years this album has been in the making process and I can definitely say that the hard work has payed of immensely. This is the fourth time I have listened to since I got in the post this week and I love every second of it; I also love how it is set up like you were watching a film. The closing track Imaginareum acts as an overture for the closing credits and you can just imagine each song as different scenes; there is a film to be released soon as the final step. All I can say is Well Done Nightwish you have really worked hard to produce this spectacular masterpiece known as Imaginareum. Possibly their best album to date; being why it is my album of 2011.
Well there you have my top ten albums of 2011; there have been some truly remarkable works here and I only hope for more as good as these in the new year.
After taking a two year gap from the spotlight; Finnish/Swedish symphonic metal gods Nightwish had been hard at work on a brand new album known as Imaginareum. If you remember I took my first step into this journey a few weeks ago with the iconic new single Storytime that really had me wondering what the new album would consist of. I was very impressed with the album; Nightwish have really gone out of their way to experiment with brand new genres and it works amazingly well, yet the magic lyrics Tuomas Holopainen writes contribute immensely with the new sound. It's incredible how they produce a jazz inspired track called Slow Love Slow and pull it off so well; I had never heard that from Nightwish before so I was greatly surprised. I love how the album opens with an authentic Finnish song sung by the heavenly voice belonging to Marco Hietala which then smoothly transforms into album's first single Storytime. My personal favourite songs on this album are I Want My Tears Back and Turn Loose The Mermaids; I love the melody of I Want My Tears back and it's amazing to hear the familiar pipes provided by Troy Donockley, he provided the pipes for The Islander and Last Of The Wilds. Turn Loose The Mermaids is a relaxing celtic track that gives the ears a break from the heavy distortion from the electric guitars. Scaretale also came as a shock to me on the album; sounding very dark indeed and Anette Olzon's voice sounds incredible, it also has a very Tim Burton feel to it; reminding me of The Nightmare Before Christmas. Not just on this song but the whole album; it has been six years since long term vocalist Tarja Tururnen was sacked via an open letter; there has been many years of debating whether Anette was the right choice for the band and I can honestly say this album says she is. It really has been one magical journey in the Imaginareum and I have enjoyed every step of the way. Stand out tracks: I Want My Tears Back, Scaretale and Turn Loose The Mermaids Tuomaslotte rates: TTTTT
I had been eagerly waiting for this gig since I bought the tickets back in June and I found out it was definitely worth the wait. Entering Wembley Village it was a very well set up with a number of restaurants and shops; I was also impressed with the very colourful lights that highlighted the fountain beautifully. My main purpose for the evening was to see three of my favourite rock bands that hail from the USA and Canada; they were Theory Of A Deadman, Black Stone Cherry and headliners Alter Bridge. Before I describe my experience at the gig I want to say there will be no photos for a while since I did loose my camera at the Arena; a bit of a nuisance but life must go on. Anyways; the first act to appear on the stage that night were Canadian rockers Theory Of A Deadman. I have loved this band since I heard them in the shop Underground Clothing and I never looked back. They gave a top notch performance from start to finish performing a wide collection of songs from So Happy to brand new album material such as my personal favourite Bitch Came Back. It was great how frontman Tyler Connolly threw out guitar picks to the audience and how he introduced each song; overall I think Theory Of A Deadman were a great choice to open up the night of hard rock that was to fall on me that night. So I was happy to hear they will be touring the UK again next year.
Find Theory Of A Deadman on Facebook, Twitter and their official website Black Stone Cherry were next to play; I was happy to be reminded of how good they are when giving a live performance. I had seen them twice before that night and I remembered how energetic these Kentucky rockers were. It was amazing how guitarist Ben Wells and bassist Jon Lawhon make use of the space on stage with such energy and passion. I liked the selection of songs they chose to play too; everything from first album material such as personal favourite Rain Wizard to brand new songs such as White Trash Millionaire. I was very happy to hear they will be touring the UK and coming to Southampton on my birthday.
Find Black Stone Cherry on Facebook, Twitter and their official website Alter Bridge had only recently come into my life and I have grown a great likeness for them. Their live performance last night only boosted my respect for the band as they really pulled off a great live show; the lights went down and the intro to Slip Into The Void was heard on the sound system and there was Myles Kennedy in the spotlight singing the first line. What an incredible introduction it was. They got better and better as the show progressed but because of the heat inside the arena it made me feel very uneasy so I decided to step outside. That did not for one second stop me enjoying there show since I could hear it through the wall and I liked their live sound. Their acoustic rendition of Wonderful Life was remarkable, Ties That Bind cheered me up as I was frantically looking around for my camera and from what I saw they had great theatrical stage props. Such as pyrotechnics, grand stage lighting and a lot of confetti; I would definitely love to see Alter Bridge live again, probably next time I won't be close to feinting.
Find Alter Bridge on Facebook, Twitter and their official website Overall despite feeling a bit poorly and loosing my camera I did enjoy myself; all the bands performed fantastically well and the atmosphere was incredible. Tuomaslotte rates: TTTTT
How are you all doing? You may have noticed I haven't written anything for a while; well I finally emerged from underneath the huge pile of uni work that I have been so busy with and I am free for now. Three deadlines in one month with a week or two between each other has really kept me occupied; I handed in my last essay before Christmas yesterday so you can imagine a huge burden off my shoulders.
I would also like to take time out to talk about Nickelback's brand new album Here And Now; eagerly opening the package I was wondering what the album would sound like. Dark Horse is one of my favorite albums to date and I was debating whether it could be topped or not. After listening to the album I realized that the album could be classified as a grower; the opening track This Means War is fantastic way to open the album, along with singles Bottoms Up and When We Stand Together. I also loved the heart felt Lullaby on the album. However listening to the end of the album I noticed they tried a new approach; more country western kind of sound that just was not working for me; Dark Horse still appears to be my favorite album from the guys but this album is not their best, I might learn to like it. Despite this I still have a huge amount of respect for these guys as they were the first rock band I listened to that made me realize who I am today.
Stand out tracks: This Means War, When We Stand Together and Lullaby
Eccentric Finnish folk metallers Turisas brought and fought the battle with the metal heads of Southampton.
Getting myself ready to go to Southampton Univeristy that consisted of dressing in a black and red combo, covering my face with black and red facepaint. I can tell you the reason for this; I was getting ready to see Finnish folk metal band Turisas for the first time and their colours are black and red. As soon as I got to the venue I got kitted out in my Turisas t-shirt I had just bought and was ready to take part in the night of heavy metal that was to be sprung onto me.
First band to play were fellow Finnish metallers Kiuas; I had only heard them briefly and liked their sound so I was looking forward to see what they brought to the stage. They certainly were a great opening act for this night of metal; their charismatic stage prescence and passion was definitely a highlight for me. Kiuas are usually a five piece; their frontman was stuck in Finland so instead of cancelling their shows they carried on like true showmen and that was what I really admired about them. In the words of the very wise Freddie Mercury 'The show must go on'.
Taiwanese metallers Chtonic were up next to play; now not being the biggest fan of extreme metal I found these guys to be hypnotically incredible, bringing in oriental influences in the lyrics and music it gave Chtonic the mysteriously haunting vibe. It was amazing to see frontman Freddy Lim start to play a hena violin that arose a fantastic reaction; he also made a valid point that stuck with me for the rest of the night and that was no matter where you come from in the world that night was the night that metalheads unite together.
The build up to the entrance of headliners Turisas was unbelievable; all over the venue fans started the call and response anthem Battle Metal whilst awaiting for them to conquer the stage. All of a sudden the lights went down; an intro piece of music was heard on the speakers and as the band members made their way onto to the stage the cheers got louder. Opening up with The March Of The Varangian Guard and performing it to the utmost perfection I could tell Turisas were well under way. I loved how they performed a mixture of material from Holmguard and Beyond to my personal favourite, Hunting Pirates, from the new album Stand Up and Fight. The violin solo half way through the set was so beautifully performed; with soft drums and piano in the background it was lovely to have a little break from the heavy music for a couple of minutes. Ending with Boney M cover of Rasputin and show stopper Battle Metal those were a clear indication Turisas gave us [the fans] exactly the show we had been asking for. From start to finish Turisas showed so much intensity, charisma, energy and passion in their performance; it spread amongst their fans as they showed the same kind of dedication for the band. That night with Turisas was one of the most fantastic experiences of my life and it has to be one of the best live shows I have seen so far.
Reading yesterday's Daily Mail I found out that Kiss legend Gene Simmons gave a lecture at the London Business School about how the country can save some more money to help us in this current economic crisis. I honestly think that there is no better person for the job; over the years Simmons has earnt so much money rocking out on stage covered in face paint whilst spitting blood and not forgetting his incredibly long tongue, he has made thousands of dollars from working for four decades on a empire selling thousands of his band's merchandise. Yet he doesn't go spending extravegant amounts on things he doesn't need and I think we could definitely learn from the guy; he quotes in the article that "you've got to make your money mean something" and yes that is very true, for a few months I have been saving for a trip around Europe and I work incredibly hard as a sales assistant for my money.
Who knew that Gene Simmons is the co-founder of ortsbo.com; the largest internet translation service? Or that he runs a financial planning business for high net worth individuals? Like a lot of us; Gene Simmons works very hard for his money. I think it is absoulutlely inspiring when a famous rock star, like Gene Simmons, takes his time out to help out people. Most recently reading in Kerrang! about how Ollie Sykes and Jona Weinhofen from Bring Me The Horizon taking some time to help us become more aware of internet safety.
Simon Marks got into contact with me and told me about his band Lost Without Cause. Who currently have two successful tours under their belt and a single breaking into the UK charts I just had to see what the album had to offer. The drum beat at the beginning of opening track Trigger reminded me of the song Everyday Combat from Lostprophets best seller Liberation Transmission; the rest of the album certainly gets better as it progresses. I also loved how acoustic track Sense showed a softer side to the band and I think musicians who can show that on their first album then that is a fantastic sign the band can go very far.
Overall a fantastic debut album; full of fun and energy. Highly recommended for fans of Lostprophets and Alkaline Trio. Catchy guitar riffs and light hearted vocals that are easy on the ears are what make this three piece original rock band amazing; keeping up the fantastic reputation the south of England has for fresh new rock bands.
Well here are my top five music videos of 2011; 5. Theory Of A Deadman - Lowlife This video was a fantastic one to show the bands return after three years; I love how the video matches with the concept of the song and I think that what we see in my top five videos. Like frontman Tyler Conolly mentions in this interview how the term has a negative connotation but the song is about how being a lowlife can be fun and there is a lowlife in all of us. This video demonstrates that perfectly; it starts with a man living in his trailer and it's obvious he doesn't care what people think of him, I particularly love the caravan exploding at the end with this man and the band walking away.
4. Within Temptation - Where Is The Edge Another band that quite a triumphant return via this song and video; the concept is a little bit darker this time however. The clip is taken from the film Me and Mr Jones which looks at the story from the aftermath of a young girl who was reported missing in Aruba five years. This song matches the mood of this video; intense, a fantastic comeback from Dutch Symphonic metallers I think.
Find Within Temptation on Facebook, Twitter and their official website 3. In Darklight - The Human Race This music video from Andover alternative rockers is in my top three is because it is their first one and they pulled it off quite well. I like the structure of this video is simple but effective; I hope they make more music videos in 2012, you can also check out their brilliant cover of The Police classic Message In A Bottle.
Find In Darklight on Facebook, Twitter and their official website 2. Black Veil Brides - Fallen Angels You either love them or you hate them but with two successful albums and many sold out shows Black Veil Brides have really done well in the music industry. Their music video for their popular song Fallen Angels to speak to everyone on so many levels; to me it shows people coming together to show us who they really are and this song does refer to them as Fallen Angels so I do think this video is a highlight of their career.
Now this music video is my top music video for 2011 because the concept of the song matches the video and Los Angeles goth rockers Dommin portrayed this in such a unique way. Getting the fans to send photos and videos of them showing their idea of what Closure is; I remember back in October last year frontman Kristopher Dommin asking for the fans help for the latest music video and I just thought what a fantastic way to get your fans involved. Especially when the final outcome of the video looked incredible; it was put together really well with footage of the band and the fans.
Very happy this morning that I found somebody had streamed Nightwish's brand new single Storytime from the radio and I got to listen to the full song for the first time. Only having seen and heard a teaser I can tell that Nightwish are trying a whole new concept in their music; in the past where it had been oceans and forests so I like how here they are trying like an alternate universe known as the Imaginareum. Anyways I love how this single opens with a keyboard tune from the musical genius himself Tuomas Holopainen accompanied by choirs, then the heaviness of the electric guitars and drums enter the song. It's been six years since long time vocalist Tarja Turunen was replaced with Swedish born Anette Olzon and I think the band have done incredibly well with Anette; I think this song particularly shows the band's growth with Anette as their singer. One of the things that attracts me to Nightwish like a moth to a flame is the beautifully written lyrics and this song is no exception; Tuomas is one my inspirations for writing and I have the biggest amount of respect for him.
Overall a fantastic new single from Finnish/Swedish metallers Nightwish; I now only eagerly await the new album to complete my adventure to the Imaginareum since I think my first step into this journey has been a magical one.
A night of hard rock, beer and wild crowds that were home to mosh pits are what made Fozzy's show last night at The Talking Heads phenomenal.
Entering The Talking Heads to see favourite hard rock band of the year Jettblack I was full of excitement; they were to be supporting Fozzy a fellow hard rock band from across the pond who are fronted by ex WWE wrestler Chris Jericho. I hadn't really heard a lot from Fozzy being since I was there for Jettblack last night.
I walked into the stage area and the first band Codejak were playing; they are a four piece rock band from Barrow in the UK. I did like the upbeat prescence they bought to The Talking Heads; their dirty, ballsy tunes were a great way to open up the night of hard rock mayhem that was to be unleashed into the atmosphere. I also love their crowd engaging stage moves such as frontman Daniel Turner showing us his guitar skills in the audience and of course giving me a high five.
Brighton boys Verses were up next to play; they had a slightly more punky sound but that didn't stop me enjoying the music. They definitely showed a lot of passion and energy in their performance; the songs I thought were great too. Very catchy and upbeat; it's great how they write songs about the little things that can make a huge difference. I bought a CD so you may see a post about them very soonand hope to see the boys back in Southampton very soon.
Jettblack have so far pleased me highly with their slick guitar riffs and solos, sexy, husky male vocals put into some amazingly written songs. Last night's performance was no exeption; I love how they manage to bring a stadium like prescence to small venues such as The Talking Heads. Starting off with album opening track Slip It On I knew Jettblack were well underway with the fans. Performing what will be stadium anthems one day such as Two Hot Girls and Fooled By A Rose to a brand new song Inbetween Lovers from their upcoming album, the High Wycombe hair metallers shall definitely making it big one day.
Headliners Fozzy did bring a fantastic crowd last night; I felt slightly out of place amongst the tough looking guys that were twice my height and worked out about three times a day. Fozzy did well to engage their fans and brining an energetic atmosphere to the venue. I did like the music Fozzy played last night but it didn't really have much of a variety and most of it did sound the same. Apart from that Fozzy did a fantastic performance; I will give them another chance I think.
Last night I entered The Royal Oak in Southampton for the first time; I always pass this pub but had never been in it. I really liked the warm homely atmosphere it gave and the moment you stepped in you felt welcome immediately as everyone shows such kindness. I was ready to enjoy some local music for an open mic night that some friends of mine were to take part in that night.
The first lot of musicians to play were the two hosts and their friends; being since it was Halloween hosts Neil and Mario took another identity in the form of Paris and Kim; they did look great dressed up as ladies. I loved how they made everybody feel at home and comfortable; Neil sang Moon River from Breakfast at Tiffanys and Titanic love theme My Heart Will Go On incredibly well. It gave off this loving vibe to me and my friends; we swayed and sang our hearts out along to a fantastic opening band last night. This gave me some indication that it was going to be a fantastic night.
Next up were a band called Simon Says; I know bass guitarist Rory Heap in the band so it was great to see his band in action. I really loved the happy sunshine sound these guys produced and a song about Peanut Butter Jelly just made me smile. Frontman Simon Tinmouth's unique, energetic stage presence intrigued me very much since I haven't seen stage techniques like it before and it really worked. I also loved their unique cover of Keisha's Tik Tok, would definitely like to watch them again very soon. Find Simon Says on Facebook An evening full of talented musicians and acts last night indeed; definitely increased my love for open mic nights. Also would like to mention Jamie Russell gave an excellent performance on his guitar and I've also got a CD from his band so expect to see a post about that very soon. If you happen to be in the Southampton area on a Sunday please come to their open mic nights; you will not regret it at all, it's the place to be when you want to leave your troubles behind for the night. Tuomaslotte rates it: TTTTT
Well guys it's that time of year where you can become creatures of the night, come together and celebrate; I'm very glad I got to celebrate Halloween uni style this year where I dressed as a corpse bride in black lace and a giant feather boa. I had these celebrations at my favourite rock and metal club this year called Dungeon. A lot of other costumes amongst my friends included Ramona Flowers from Scott Pilgrim vs The World, The Emperor and my favourite being Dr Franken Furter from The Rocky Horror Show. Was a fantastic night and I may endure more spooks tonight when trick or treaters come knocking at my door. Here's some pictures from Friday night and a song that I think reminds anyone of Halloween.
My friend Siri as Ramona Flowers
Me with my friend Chris as Franken Furter
Today I'll be writing a review about an open mic night I went to last night; so keep your eyes peeled for that.
Well guys another year gone; it is now time to tell about my ten top albums that have really highlighted my year.
10. Black Veil Brides - Set The World On Fire
Despite their dissapointing live show in October I am going to give Hollywood rockers Black Veil Brides some credit for producing a fantastic album and starting a new revolution to music fans everywhere. I do love how the speak for outsiders in society and a lot of their music does very much speak to outsiders; it has a great mixture of songs such as the anthemic Fallen Angels and the heartfelt Saviour. Andy Biersack enticing vocals draws you in like a moth to the flame. You either love them or you hate them; either way their iconic Set The World On Fire has made it to number 10 of my albums of 2011.
Finnish glam rockers Reckless Love's second album has really worked wonders in my music findings this year; very much liking the fact they remind me of a modern day version Poison. Catchy songs and old school guitar riffs are what really pushed my buttons; following a successful debut I think Reckless Love really deliver here.
I love the whole concept of this album produced by Scottish pirate rockers Alestorm; they write and perform songs that are related to pirate related matters and that is what I love. Most of the songs have a special place in my heart such as Scrapin the Barrell and The Sunk'n Norwegian. I definitely hope to see and hear more from them when I see them live in the new year.
Eccentric Finnish metal heads Turisas have been a huge highlight of 2011 and this album is one of the reasons; I love their folk approach to metal and add an accordian and violin into the mix. My personal favourites on this album being The March of the Varangian Guard and Hunting Pirates this album really stood out for me this year. The key album that converted me to a Turisas fan for good.
6. Black Stone Cherry - Between The Devil and The Deep Blue Sea
To be honest; after hearing Blame It On The Boom Boom I was doubting what Black Stone Cherry's new album would sound like since I wasn't too keen on the song. However my hopes were lifted again after hearing the song White Trash Millionaire; the hopes were also confirmed. They still had their usual kick ass sound with catchy riffs and excellent vocal skills from Chris Robertson; a friend of mine mentioned the number of ballads on the album and I found he is right. Black Stone Cherry can produce a wide range of tunes and this album is proof.
I am wondering why I haven't heard this album before; it's original release date was over a year ago but after recently listening to two of their songs I realised I abosoulutely had to listen to this album. Starting off with the very two songs that got me loving Canadian rockers My Darkest Days, Move Your Body and Porn Star Dancing, I knew this album was definitely going to be brilliant. Particularly when Porn Star Dancing features Nickelback's frontman Chad Kroeger lending his powerfully unique voice and Black Label Society legend Zakk Wylde offering killer guitar riffs and solos throughout the song. After that the album gets better and better giving us a selection of songs that sound very differently to one another; my particular favourite on there is the song Like Nobody Else, it's very heartfelt and it's what we can all relate to in the world of love.
Overall a fantastic debut album; I think this band could go on up the musical ladder. Hope a new album is not far off and a visit to the UK will be nice too! If you love a bit feel good rock then buy this album
Stand Out Tracks: Porn Star Dancing, Like Nobody Else and Set It On Fire
How are you keeping? It has been a while since I've posted; caught a flu bug from my housematem meaning I have been feeling very poorly for the past week. Not to worry I am on the road to recovery. Anyways I would like to tell you all about a new social networking website for those who are alternative human beings like myself. It's a great idea as people can meet others with similar interest; they have a music section too, all the new upcoming bands with MP3 downloads. I shall have a proper look at the music section when I have a bit more time.
Well hearing about these guys from a social networking site a lot of people called Facebook I decided to download the debut album No Hero In This Hell from No Closure; who hail from Yeovil, UK. Anyways listening to the album on my iPod on a cold morning on the way to university this morning I really like the opening track right before all the songs begin to kick into action; a lot of the songs remind me of Alter Bridge as lead vocalist Dan Battye sounds like the almighty Myles Kennedy. I really like their grungy melodies that sort of give off a don't mess with us vibe. It will be great to see this band in action; hope to see them in Southampton sometime. For fans of Alter Bridge and Creed Tuomaslotte Rating: TTTT
This band were recommended by drummer Matt Oliver from Jettblack and had been meaning to listen to their EP for a while. Finding some time in my busy uni life I bought it today; first off I have to say the name of the EP is brilliant, original and no other band has used it before. They give off a very dark vibe through their music and with it getting closer to Halloween I believe this music will fit in perfectly. I personally think these guys did a fantastic job with their debut EP, definitely gives us the jist of what this band are all about. For fans of The 69 Eyes and Dommin Tuomaslotte Rates: TTTT
I had only heard about these glam metallers from Finland, also known as Reckless Love, just this year but I have really grown to love their catchy, upbeat feel good rock. Looking at their feathery hair, leather outfits and bandanas I can immediately see a modern day version of Poison. To be honest I wasn't sure what to expect on this album after the single Hot was released; I thought the whole album was going to sound a bit like that song. Opening with the song Animal Attraction was definitely a well thought out move on the bands part as it introduces the album perfectly and it gives you the jist of what the album is all about; this song is a personal favourite of mine on this album and I think I've played it for the fourth time today. I also like how the album doesn't sound too much like their first self titled album; not that I didn't like their first album it's great seeing a band experiment with different song layouts and structures. A fantastic example of this is the song Coconuts; such an original concept and the jungle like drums make me smile. I did not expect the sounds from elephants and monkeys on the song either; only Reckless Love. I also notice vocalist Olli Herman sounds very much like Jon Bon Jovi on this album, it makes me wonder how I missed that on their first album.
Overall a fantastic second album from the Finnish glam metallers; a feel good happy go lucky achievement and I think I could listen to this album over and over again!
Stand Out Tracks: Animal Attraction, Fantasy and Coconuts
