Top 10 Live shows of 2011: 5-1

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

4. Alter Bridge, Black Stone Cherry and Theory Of A Deadman @ Wembley Arena; London 29/11/2011

Three of the greatest grunge bands from across the pond playing under one roof for one night was one of the greatest gigs I have seen this year; all three of them performed fantastic sets. Will have to try and get the DVD of that gig; so many cameras were there to capture one of the most anticipated gigs of 2011. Unfortunately I lost mine at that gig but I will still have the fantastic memories of being part of the crowd.

Find Alter Bridge on Facebook, Twitter and their official website
Find Black Stone Cherry on Facebook, Twitter and their official website
Find Theory Of A Deadman on Facebook, Twitter and their official website

3. Heaven's Basement and Jettblack @ The Talking Heads; Southampton 19/5/2011

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

2. Turisas @ Southampton University 15/11/2011

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.

Find Turisas on Facebook, Twitter and their official website

1. The Treatment @ The Joiners; Southampton 11/12/2011

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.

Top 10 Albums of 2011 - Part 2

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.

Purchase the album now on iTunes or Amazon

4. My Darkest Days - My Darkest Days

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.

Purchase the album now on iTunes or Amazon

3. Theory Of A Deadman - The Truth Is...

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.

Purchase the album now on iTunes or Amazon

2. Within Temptation - The Unforgiving

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.

Purchase the album now on iTunes or Amazon

1. Nightwish - Imaginareum

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.

Purchase the album now on iTunes or Amazon

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.

Could Gene Simmons help our economy? I think yes!!

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. 

Find Kiss on Facebook, Twitter and their official website

Top 5 Music videos of 2011

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.

Find Theory Of A Deadman on Facebook, Twitter and their official website

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.

Find Black Veil Brides on Facebook, Twitter and their official website


1. Dommin - Closure

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.

Find Dommin on Facebook, Twitter and their official website

Open Mic night @ The Royal Oak; Southampton 30/10/2011

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

Top 10 Albums of 2011 - Part 1

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.

Purchase the album now on iTunes or Amazon

 

9. Reckless Love - Animal Attraction

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.

Purchase the album now on iTunes or Amazon  

8. Alestorm - Back Through Time

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.

Purchase the album now on iTunes or Amazon

7. Turisas - Stand Up and Fight

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.

Purchase the album now on iTunes or Amazon

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.

Purchase this album now on iTunes and Amazon

That was part one for the top ten; look out for my top 5 post.

No Closure

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

Find No Closure on Facebook and their SignMeToRoadrunnerRecords page

Release The Bats - Nighty Night EP

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

Find Release The Bats on Facebook and Twitter

Top 10 Live Shows of 2011: 10-6

I did go and see a lot of bands this year all over the south of England (mainly Southampton). Here is my first part of the top ten; click the title to read the full gig review.

10. In Darklight EP launch @ The Clapham Grand; London 19/8/2011

This was possibly the biggest event for Andover three piece alternative/experimental rock band In Darklight; I remember them telling this was their biggest venue they have played at so far and they did a fantastic job. Their new EP was being released too so I think this was a fantastic way to promote it; it was my first time visiting The Clapham Grand so it was a very exciting experience for me. 

Find In Darklight on Facebook, Twitter and their official website

9. Open Mic night @ The Royal Oak; Southampton 30/10/2011

This was a fantastic opportunity to see just in store what Southampton had to offer in terms of new talent; this particular day was fantastic since it was the first time I got to see this in action. Seeing new talent from the likes of acoustic four piece Simon Says with their happy go lucky tunes that make the world want to join together in song to some hilarious antics from hosts Neil and Mario dressed as two very good looking ladies The Royal has it all. It is described as the ultimate student local and I can definitely see why.

Find The Royal Oak on Facebook and their official website
Find Simon Says on Facebook and Twitter

8. Die So Fluid @ The Talking Heads; Southampton 5/3/2011

I will definitely describe this show as a night of industrial metal madness; I also became a fan of two new bands that really just blew me away. Dreams Divide providing something original and fresh, Killing For Company giving us something that is easy on the ears and Die So Fluid giving a show stopping performance as the headlining act. That night enforced my love for industrial metal.

Find Die So Fluid on Facebook and their official website

7. Daniel Leigh Solo @ The Cellar; Southampton 28/1/2011

Daniel Leigh's beautiful acoustic set was part of an Angry Badger showcase along with other great acts featuring Kodiak Jack and We Caught The Castle. This was the first time me watching Dan without his band New Device and it really emphasised his unique voice. It was also fantastic to hear some new material from him too.

Find Daniel Leigh on Facebook, Twitter and his official website



6. Sonata Arctica @ Sub89; Reading 24/3/2011

Sonata Arctica have been in my musical heart for about two years now ever since I listened to Finnish power metal; I really love how their lyrics are very poetic and they add some guitars to the mix to make a fantastic show. Their live performance showed their passion for their music and I love how they interacted with their fans. Performing a selection of songs from Replica to Flag In The Ground the Finnish metallers really know how to get a crowd going. I do hope to see them perform live again very soon.

Find Sonata Arctica on Facebook, Twitter and their official website

Well here is my first half of the top ten live shows; be sure to look out for the next half. 

Blondie is back

Looking through the what's new section of Spotify I noticed 70s legend Blondie has had a recent song out; I love Debbie Harry's charismatic personality. Along with The Runaways and The Bangles; Blondie was part of the girl power generation where the ladies started to get into the music industry. She's had many hits from The Tide Is High to Maria; wowing the nation with her distinct voice and laid back approach to music. I love how now she has experimented with a new sound; more dancy type music that contrasts with her laid back rock sound she had in the 70s/80s/90s. However she keeps the rock vibe in the song and still has her amazing voice.

Find Blondie on Facebook, Twitter, LastFM and her official website 

Caro Emerald - Deleted Scenes From The Cutting Room Floor

I had seen this album advertised on the TV and was very intrigued by Caro Emerald's sound; it reminded me of old fashioned jazz that you don't seem to hear in mainstream culture. So it was definately great to see some original sounding music. Anyway when my sister told me she owned the album I asked if I could borrow it; I am so glad I did. The first song That Man is such a great song; I had heard it before so I was glad it was on the album. I love how the lyrics from each song seem to relate to what singers from the 50s sang about; romance, deception. It's amazing how the jazz fuses together with a bossa nova, samba beat. Each song had a different upbeat finger snapping rhythm. I also love how each song stood out for instance Dr Wanna Do; it sounds so much like a song you would hear in an old fashioned musical and it just made me smile.

Overall a fantastic album; I love how each song made me dance in my seat and I love the contrast between romance and deception throughout. Definately keeps you on your toes; could possibly be on Tuomaslotte's 2011 lists somewhere.

Stand Out Tracks:  That Man, Dr Wanna Do and Stuck

Find Caro Emerald on Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, YouTube, LastFM and her official website

Russ Diapper - No Cure For Curiousity

Hey guys; a friend of mine has a brand new solo out now, he is from local blues rock band Gecko so it would be interesting to listen to his solo stuff. I was listening to it on my way to town the other day; I could gather some influences from Black Sabbath and a hint of ZZ Top. Definately heard a glimpse of the old school bluesy rock via the song Cluckin Mad which has to be a favourite of mine on the album. This album I think is the ideal thing to listen to in a open roof car on the open road to a place to get away from it all, I love the laid back, feel good vibe you get from the album; the songs just make me smile. I hear Gecko are sceduled to come to Southampton next week I think, will be sure to pop by to see them.

Stand Out Tracks:  Cluckin Mad, Ain't No Rich Man and Need My Lady

Click here to purchase the album

Since this post is about Russ just thought I'd let you guys know he has a mobile studio located in Southampton; if you are in a band or know someone who is click here for more info.

Find Russ' band Gecko on Facebook, MySpace, Reverbnation and their official website

Black Veil Brides - Set The World On Fire

Ever since hearing about them I have been loving what Kerrang readers have voted 'best international newcomer' and after listening to this album I can definately see why they acheived this status. A variety of catchy but rather strong melodies are one of the elements that make this album special. Andy Biersack's voice is incredible, possibly one of my new favourite singers after listening to this album. I think this album is definately an escapist album which is brilliant; helping you forget any kind of stress and one of the things I love to do is to find anyway to escape the pressure reality seems to put on us today. My favourite tracks on the album are Fallen Angels and the heartfelt Saviour; I can imagine the song Fallen Angels being performed to a huge arena such as Wembley and getting the positive reception, a whole crowd shouting back WE SCREAM as a call and response effect. Saviour almost had me in tears; it's such a touching song, I also like the fact Andy uses screamo vocals near the end of the song. Caught me off guard I must say.

Overall a fantastic new album from 'best international newcomer' Black Veil Brides; unfortunately having missed them at Download this year I am happy to say I'll be seeing them in Southampton in October. Cannot wait for that.

Stand Out Tracks:  Set The World On Fire, Fallen Angels and God Bless You

Find Black Veil Brides on Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, YouTube and their official website

Alestorm - Back Through Time

I had been looking forward the release of this album from Scottish pirate rockers Alestorm since I heard the catchy song Shipwrecked; the song is very catchy and I love the piratey vibe, songs about rum and being trapped on a island lost at sea. I love how the opening track Back Through Time has the rough choppy sea effects followed by a pirate shouting to the captain about vikings invading; it then leads into a song about vikings stealing pirates treasure. After that opening track the album just kept getter better; I really love the song Scraping The Barrell, it sounds very much like a traditional sea shanty with a hint of rock. There is a song about Captain Jack Sparrow's favourite drink......actually a drink that all pirates adore, Rum; this song is indeed incredibly catchy and it explains how amazing rum is.

What's brilliant about this album is how the songs sound like the kind of tales you'd hear pirates sing yet they have the modern twist. It's also great to know there is a pirate rock genre out there and if you want a taste pirate rock then this is definately the album for you.

Stand Out Tracks:  The Sunk'n Norwegian, Rum and Swashbuckled

Find Alestorm on Facebook and their official website

Amorphis -The Beginning Of Times

This bands music I have always been very inspired by; I love the sound of Tomi Jousten's deep voice that also has a growl and the haunting, dark rock. Like a musical beast from the land of metal music (a.k.a Finland). After watching their amazing new video I had to listen to their brand new album. The opening song Battle For Light definately was a great choice to open the album; the enchanting piano entices you that then leads to the very heavy growls from Mr Jousten. The song You I Need I recognised immediately; that was the song they now have the video for so I was glad that was on the album. One of my personal favourites on the album is the song Escape; the intro definately gives a heroic sense to the song and I love the piano tune/riff whatever you'd like to call it.. I also liked the song On a Stranded Shore, it reminded me of a softer version of their previous Silent Waters

Overall a great album from the Finnish dark metallers; I also like the concept of this album too. It has also been announced Amorphis are to support Nightwish at their one off LA concert.

Stand out tracks:  Battle For Light, Escape and Beginning Of Time

Find Amorphis on Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, YouTube and their official website

Heaven's Basement - Unbreakable EP

I took the liberty of buying Heaven's Basement's brand new EP at a recent mindblowing show in Southampton; I loved their last EP so I was really looking forward to listening to this one and must say I was highly impressed. Opening with the groundbraking Unbreakable sent chills down my spine; some of the songs on the brand new EP I recognised from the gig and from their Facebook page. Heaven's Basement newly recruited singer Aaron Buchanan did a great job on the vocal pipes; after watching his outstanding performance on Thursday I am very confident about the future for these London hard rockers. My personal favourites on the EP are The Long Goodbye and Leeches; they are both really upbeat songs and always put a smile on my face when I listen to them. I also recognised Close Encounters from their setlist and remember stamping my feet to the rhythm of the slick intro; I love the guitar riff in that song. I also loved the heartfelt Let Me Out Of Here, I think I remember swaying along to it at the gig with my best friend.

Overall a great second EP and hope to hear more soon. This EP is proof that Heaven's Basement still go strong.

Stand out tracks:  The Long Goodbye, Let Me Out Of Here and Leeches

Find Heaven's Basement on their official website, Facebook, MySpace and Twitter

Amaranthe - Amaranthe

I couldn't wait til tomorrow to write a post about this album because it is that good and I may have found another band that fits Tuomaslotte's Bands Of 2011 and Albums of 2011 lists perfectly. I found this album on Spotify under recommendations so I thought 'Why not, I'll give it a listen". On the first listen I was very taken aback by the screamo vocals but once I saw how well it fits together with clean vocals I was amazed; I have possibly listened to the first song Leave Everything Behind for about the fourth time today, I love how this dark metal writes very deep, heavy hearted and poetical lyrics but they put it with such catchy melodies....it's pure genius. There was something different about the melodies in this album, nothing like I have heard in previous metal albums; it has the dirty grungy sounds of metal that mixes with 80s synthesisers. A perfect example of this is put into practise via the track Automatic; the verses give off a dirty grungy melody then the chorus sounds very sort of 80s, I think this technique is genius.

Overall a fantastic album from Swedish/Danish melodic death metallers with a variety of songs from the fast paced dirty Hunger to the heartfelt ballad Amarathine; hope they come to the UK to do a show sometime.

Stand Out Tracks:  Leave Everything Behind, Automatic and Amarathine

Find Amaranthe on Facebook and MySpace

Roy Khan leaves Kamelot

A little bit disheartened today by the news of vocalist Roy Khan choosing to leave power metal band Kamelot; he has the most enchanting voice that fits the songs perfectly. I don't know much more about the situation but I do know a man named Fabio is replacing Roy, I'm sure Fabio will do well. Roy will be missed dearly and I wish him all the best for the future. I'll leave you with a video of Roy singing one of my favourite Kamelot songs.

Click here to read the statement from Kamelot's official website

Find Kamelot on their official website, Facebook, MySpace and Twitter

Interview with In Darklight

After watching a cracking performance from the guys in February at The Danebury hotel in Andover I was excited to be interviewing them, unfortunately couldn't do it on the night as intended due to the music being so loud you could hear it at all corners of the hotel so I sent drummer Louis Sellers the questions via Facebook. 

This morning I recieved a message from Lou explaining he and his band mates recorded the answers for the interview, for a brief moment I was a tiny bit worried for I hadn't recorded myself asking the questions. Luckily their best friend Roxy Garnett was interviewing them in the studio, this came as a pleasent suprise to me and I was amazed with final outcome of the interview.

Would love to say a massive thank you to Roxy and In Darklight for bringing this interview to life, I shall see them again at my favourite music venue in Southampton The Joiners in April. Can't wait for that.

To listen to the interview click here

Find In Darklight on Facebook, MySpace, YouTube, Twitter, LastFM and Reverbnation

Minutes

Hello lovely blog readers, seeing a link shared by good friend Gaz Bolan advertising his new band called Minutes. An alternative rock quartet hailing from Birmingham who do have a remarkable sound; listening to the song Rescue Me I am loving the rocky melody, upbeat rhythm and neck breaking solos. I can see a promising future for these guys and I hope they stop by in Southampton sometime. Be sure to share the video below with your friends by either posting it on Facebook or Twitter, it isn't the music video of the song I was talking about more like a preview of what they are all about. A free download of the song Rescue Me is avaliable on Facebook until 23rd April 2011, click here to do so.

Find them Facebook, MySpace and Twitter

For fans of Kids In Glass Houses and Lostprophets