THE METAL TIMES: June 2019

Sunday, June 30, 2019

GREYSTONE CANYON! Interview and Video

Melbourne based heavy metal band featuring
Darren Cherry - guitar / vocals
Luke Wilson - drums
Rich Vella - guitar
Dave Poulter - bass

In the 70s and 80s, Australia gave the world great hard rock/metal acts like AC/DC and Rose Tattoo. Now, joining those Aussie giants of rock are GREYSTONE CANYON!

The name GREYSTONE CANYON is inspired by the freedom of wide open landscapes, something Australia and America very much have in common.

“It was inspired by our love for the old western films and the images these films conjure. The vast plains, endless horizons, the freedom, and heck, GREYSTONE CANYON is one hell of a cool name for rock/ metal band!” says vocalist /guitarist Darren Cherry.

GREYSTONE CANYON will release their debut album “While The Wheels Still Turn” on March 9, 2018, in Europe, U.S.A and Canada through Rockshots Records and on Hellfire Records in Australia on March 12, 2018.

“While The Wheels Still Turn” was tracked at the splendidly named Goatsound Studios in Melbourne, Australia, and then mixed in Canada, making ‘the album a real rock n’ roll frequent flyer. Mixing duties were undertaken by none other than Grammy nominated producer and legend Glen Robinson, who had engineered, mixed and produced equally legendary acts like Annihilator, Queensryche and Voivod.

Inspired by legends like Led Zeppelin, Alice Cooper, Ozzy Osbourne, Megadeth and King Diamond, “While The Wheels Still Turn” is an album that could not only sit well beside the works of those legends, but with the current tsunami of all things 70s and 80s inspired, GREYSTONE CANYON are in the right place at the right time. We are travelling back to the future and they are the soundtrack!

As vocalist/guitarist Darren Cherry proudly states.“We really wanted to make an album similar to old Ozzy Osbourne record where songs like ‘I don’t know’ and ‘Goodbye To Romance’ can sit comfortably. This is music from the heart and soul!”

Album pre-order available on Amazon here and www.Rockshots.eu.

1.What is the name of your band and how did you come up with it?

What is your name and what do you do for the band?

Greystone Canyon. Like all bands we came up with a bunch of names and everyone really liked Greystone Canyon, we are fans of the Wild West and western films and thought it was a good descriptive name that reflected the sound of the band.

2.Tell us where you are based and describe the scene. How do you think where you are located influences your sound.

Melbourne, Australia has a very vibrant and healthy music scene, we have many great local bands and international bands are playing in our city every week. I've been fortunate to have played in many influential bands here and each one has influenced me in one way or another on a musical level but also on a personal level, it's hard not to be influenced when you have great people around you.

3.Who influences your sound that would surprise people?

Our influences would be everyone from Ozzy

To ZZ Top.. we mix classic metal with classic rock and everything in between.. influences can come from Black Sabbath to Pink Floyd and Fleetwood Mac.

4.Are you endorsed by musical companies , if so who , and if not who would you like to be endorsed by?

Our guitarist Richard Vella has a deal with Brock guitars but not exclusive and he also used other brands.. other than that we don't have any deals in place. The most important deal for me personally would be strings... im happy playing and buying different guitars and amps so I can be as diverse as the song demands but strings... and endless supply is what we all need..

5.When you started what was your ultimate goal? And how close to the goal are you now?

The only goal was to record an album that we could be proud of... that goal was reached.. albums are your legacy and is important to me that I can stand proud by our work.

6.In today's digital environment it takes creative strategy to keep things moving. What creative ideas do you have to keep your band relevant over time?

The thing that keeps bands relevant is quality in my opinion.. the reason there are so many bands from the 70's and 80's still on the radio and still selling out venues is because what they did had heart and connected with people and the quality of what they released keeps finding new audiences.

7.We've all seen a terrible live band that is awesome on CD. Is that cool with you or do you lose respect for bands that cannot pull it off live?

I guess it depends on what the band wants.... there are just as many good live bands that don't record well.. I think it's more difficult to put out an album of great songs that stands the rest of time than it is to play well live for 45 minutes.. both have merit and both are important but if a and I Love done play well live I'll still listen to their albums... albums and songs are forever, live shows are a moment in time.

8.Tell us your “core” are you Metal , Rock , Punk , Pop etc because people just have to categorize these days you know?

We are a rock band in the broadest sense of the term.. we have Heavy songs, we have acoustic songs.. there are vocal harmonies so I'd say we are a rock band... I'm sure other people will have a different opinion but that's the beauty of music.

9.This is a tough question but a very real reality, Is your band actually talented or just popular?

Many bands make it with a cliche or publicity stunts etc. Would you accept fame even if it was just because of being the “ in” thing or is it actually important to you that you gain favor with talent?

I honestly don't care about fame.. making great music is a passion and the guys I play with are very talented and I believe that is showcased in our songs..

10.Tell us what to expect from you live. Nothing is more boring than watching bands stare at the floor and bob their heads to music nobody but the band knows. What can your band offer in a live setting that people will remember?

Our album has been out for 12 months and we haven't played live yet... we all play in other bands and for this band it's important to me that when we play it's because there is demand to see the band live rather than book a show just for the sake of playing.. collectively we have a lot of experience playing live but Greystone Canyon has not played live yet.

11. What releases have you put out , When will we see something new?

Time to plug out album ... ha ha. Our debut album "While the Wheels Still Turn" was released March 12 2018 on Rockshots / Hellfire Records and has had some fantastic reviews including best debut for 2018 by Australia's TV show "The Hard Rock Show". For anyone interested the album was mixed by Glen Robinson (Queensryche, Voivod, Annihilator). We are currently working on the follow up.. all the songs have been written and we are currently demoing them.

12. If you have videos where can we see them?

We have 3 video singles out that are all on YouTube...

Just search Greystone Canyon and tell us what you think.

13.Everybody has Bandcamp , ReverbNation , Soundcloud , etc

Why do you think this is so important? Doesn't it seem like everyone is giving everything out for free?

We actually don't have those.. our label, Rockshots Records does have our album on Spotify, ITunes, Applemusic and Amazon as well as the physical copies distributed by Plastic Head in Europe and MVD in the US. Yes music is now a free commodity... it's never been harder to sell music

14.Best moment of your career so far?

Being on national TV and all the fantastic reviews and Love our album received from the music media... it's very rewarding

15.Your message to the fans?

Love music, love life, love one another... while the wheels still turn

Bonus Question who do you bring back
Dime , Cliff , Dio , Lemmy , Randy

All of them... we need them, we miss them

Dime , Cliff , Dio , Lemmy , Randy

*FROM WES
People used to make fun of me in the beginning because I would tag bands like Slipknot and Metallica in my post for my podcast and over the years I have made some great friends and been surprised at the awesome people in the scene. These days I never know what will happen but I still tag bands and look what happens this awesome band is signed they have PR they have no need of my services but did they blow me off? No they were awesome sent me a video a link to their album and did an interview that is enough to make me a BIG fan and luckily their music is kick ass! You will be hearing them on the podcast! I want to say thank you to my new friend Darren Cherry for his time and kindness.

Tuesday, June 25, 2019

NEXT DOOR TO HEAVEN Show There Are ‘V Ways To Accept’

The second album from Russian progressive metalcore group Next Door To Heaven is called V Ways To Accept. It is a mature work which totally differs from the first releases of the band which were part of the search for their own style and sound. With V Ways To Accept, they seem to have found it. The album takes the listener on a long journey with a concept based around human emotions. You start from the denial stage, go through anger, bargaining, depression and finally end up with acceptance. The album consists of 10 tracks with some stages represented by a few tracks. All the songs were influenced by personal experience so they are very sincere from the beginning until the end.

The recording and production processes took a lot of time, about a year. The drums were recorded by famous Russian (session) drummer Pavel Lokhnin. The production itself was made by Gene Mazunov in his home studio. The cover art was made by the British designer Rich Lock.

All the songs on the album have their own mood and involve different sub-genres which makes a much richer impression for the listener.

V Ways To Accept | Released on June 25th, 2019 on Sliptrick Records

Next Door To Heaven are:
Daria “Dasha” Mazunova – Vocals/Lyrics | Evgenii “Gene” Mazunov – Guitars/Programming | Sergey Kovalenko – Bass guitar

SHADOWPATH Whisper/Scream The ‘Rumours Of A Coming Dawn’

The album re-release from Swiss symphonic death metal group Shadowpath is entitled Rumours Of A Coming Dawn and its structure is basically a story consisting of 8 chapters, enchanting metaphors, that are beautifully woven into each other to form a whole.

During the recording and producing process, Shadowpath aimed to achieve a tight, very atmospheric and multiverse sound, balancing the dichotomy of bright light and darkness, keeping the listener fascinated throughout the audio experience while never repeating itself.

Each of the eight tracks are individual slices of creative theatre in an overall play, epic productions and all woven together with an instinctive passion and imagination. Each track also provides a web of layers and textures which unveils new twists and fresh aspects with every listen, a major reason why it grows in impressiveness over attentive time.

The sound of Shadowpath uses decisive keyboard elements while still giving the heavy and sometimes acoustic guitars all the room they deserve. In the bands opinion, Rumours Of A Coming Dawn is an album that reveals its fullest and brightest strength after listening to it several times, unmasking more and more details in its structure with every repetition.

Rumours Of A Coming Dawn | Re-Released July 9th, 2019 on Sliptrick Records

Recorded and mixed at SOS Basement | Mastered at echochamber in Zürich

Shadowpath are:
Philipp Bohny – Keyboards/Growl and Backing vocals | Simone Christinat – Lead vocals | Samuel Baumann – Drums | Stefano Riario – Guitars

Eternal Storm (Spain) - 'Come The Tide'

Spanish death metal band Eternal Storm have created a mesmerizing album full of elegant riffs and soul-piercing melodies. After releasing a very well received EP and a split release, they've come up with their debut full length which sets new standards for bands playing in this style. Everything is immaculately executed, right from the artwork to the production, ensuring that their much awaited release doesn't leave anything to be desired. The music is breathtaking and takes influences from several styles to create a sound that is at once emotive and striking. Most bands lean excessively towards either side but Eternal Storm exemplify the perfect balance of melody and heaviness in death metal music. Nothing on the album is forced but flows naturally, almost intuitively, and transports you to a tumultuous place where you take in the beauty as well as the wrath - a place akin to the one featured on the album cover.

ASTRALIUM To Release Debut Album via Rockshots Records

ASTRALIUM To Release Debut Album via Rockshots Records / Spiritual Beast (Japan) August 2019
Debut Album "Land of Eternal Dreams" Out August 23rd

Italy’s symphonic metal band ASTRALIUM announces they will be releasing their debut album titled “Land of Eternal Dreams” on August 23rd via Rockshots Records (worldwide release) along with the full length being available in Japan via Spiritual Beast on the same date. A pure symphonic album with power heavy prog metal influences, epic choirs, high pitch vocals plus lyrical sections and baroque/magniloquent arrangements, “Land Of Eternal Dreams” is a concept release about dreams and the astral universe, but also the fantasy world that lives in us. It's an inner journey through imaginary stories about myths and legends from the past.

The band explains the release:
"First of all, I want to say that we are very excited about our debut album “Land Of Eternal Dreams”. Fans can expect an amazing album of great melodies, blended with cinematic, symphonic and classical music, along with metal guitar riffs and epic choirs. We believe that music evokes sensations, emotions and real fantastic worlds in our minds."

The album also features specials guests Tommy Johansson (Sabaton, Majestica), Jo Lombardo (Ancestral, ex-Metatrone), Andrea Martongelli (Arthemis), Stefano "Ghigas" Calvagno (Metatrone, NefeshCore), Adam Cook (A Hill To Die Upon), Davide Bruno (Metatrone, NefeshCore) and more.

ASTRALIUM was formed in 2014 by soprano Roberta Pappalardo and bass player Giuseppe Pappalardo. Drummer Salvo Grasso (Metatrone, Hypersonic) and guitarist Emanuele Alessandro complete the line-up.

Album pre-order: http://bit.ly/astralium_preorder
Album Teaser: https://youtu.be/b1Xg9acn32I

ASTRALIUM - Album Teaser

Track Listing:
1. Remembrance
2. The Journey
3. Rising Waves From The Ocean
4. My Life Is My Eternity
5. Whisper In The Silence
6. Hope Is Gone
7. Breath of My Soul
8. A Dream's Elegy
9. Seven Seas, Seven Winds
10. Ethereal Voices From The Forest
11. The World of Unknown
12. Hidden Conspiracy

Bonus Track Japan
13. Hope Is Gone (orchestral version

For more info:
www.rockshots.eu
www.facebook.com/astraliumband
www.instagram.com/astralium_metalband

The Last Sound Revelation

On Hidden Voices, the new EP from Italians The Last Sound Revelation released worldwide via Sliptrick Records, the group talk about sound as a revealing instrument of sensations and emotions and as an alternative language to images or text (the bands logo defers from the usual stylization of a band’s name in favor of an archaic symbolism where the letters T, L, R become the hieroglyphics, ┌, └, ┌ and universal where the S, in its braille form, underlines the evocative power of music).

Linked to this overall vision is music which, starting from a concept free from any scheme, viscerally binds itself to the sensations and emotions of the moment and then harnesses them and evokes them in the form of images or flashbacks of a dream world in which they mix together creating precisely the revelation of the last sound.

Track by track: (by The Last Sound Revelation)
The songs contained on Hidden Voices were formed from a combination of imagination, sound poetry and dream image. Voices that no longer have the tools to express themselves and that are transported, almost embodied, by the notes of songs like The Odd, a piece capable of leading the listener into a maze of eccentricities that make up everyday life on earth and which, through sudden changes of rhythm and melody, wants to express all the insecurity due to those oddities.

There are small details, almost insignificant for many, which are told through the most imposing sounds of Centaurus and which are strongly linked to the discovery of an agricultural wreck halfway around the fields near Rome. The Centaurus tractor is now only a rusted, abandoned carcass, that cannot tell its story because without a master, but it is also a symbol of time gone by and of the continuous change of human society.

Canonae, through its circular shape or “palindroma”, is the musical representation of the concept whereby any form of communication, whether gestural, vocal or sound, follows symbologies, or objective rules, to which all must refer to understand.

In Insights In The Meanwhile, references return to bucolic and dreamlike images that, recalled through the extended time of a ballad, wants to guide the listener on a long journey, through desolate places, to rediscover their own mind.

Still talking about silent voices, Doublebirth Lullaby is dedicated to the birth of two very special children for the group that over the years has become like a family. At the time of the creation of the piece, our intent was to give voice to the sensations of the two future parents (Tiziano and Francesco) and impress them indelibly in a passage with a strongly melodic and variegated character. Doublebirth Lullaby, however, is also a way of giving voice to those who still have no voice, to those hidden voices that will soon air to the world, to those to whom we bequeath our muted album of words but full of real life.

Hidden Voices | Released on July 5th, 2019 on Sliptrick Records

Track Listing:
01. The Odd | 02. Centaurus | 03. Canonae | 04. Insights In The Meanwhile | 05. Doublebirth Lullaby

Recording sessions were carried out at ‘Hombrelobo’ Studios with the supervision of Mr. Fabio “Reeks” Recchia in the role of sound engineer and artistic producer for the whole process. Mixing and Mastering final steps were completed over Summer 2018.

The Last Sound Revelation are:
Francesco Salvitti – Guitar | Niccolò Sbernadori – Bass | Tiziano De Sante – Drum | Massimiliano Forlani – Guitar

Band links: Facebook | Youtube | Instagram | On Sliptrick

Sunday, June 23, 2019

HAUNTED HEART INTERVIEW

Haunted Heart is an action-packed hard rock band from Toronto, ON. While their focus and passion predominately lies in original music, they have a wide repertoire of covers ranging from the 70s, 80s, and 90s.

Haunted Heart was founded in July of 2017 by Raff Randazzo on drums and Steve Macleod on lead guitar. Soon after Roxane De Longo joined as lead vocalist, Jason ‘Bosko’ Shamblott as rhythm guitar and backing vocals, Ben Challot as bassist (former).

With over 100 years of combined experience amongst the band members, and extreme diversity in musical background, style and taste, and the vocals of Roxane, which are unorthodox for the genre, Haunted Heart is far from your average hard rock band. A strong influence of blues, punk, rock, hard rock and metal can be heard in their original content.

You can catch Haunted Heart touring around the GTA this summer, and their first EP is set for release Fall 2019!1.Introduce yourself and your band and tell us why we should listen to you.

Raff: Raff Randazzo. My band Haunted Heart, because it's awesome. lol

Roxy: My Name is Roxane and I am the Lead singer for Haunted Heart. You should listen to us because we are different! We have a unique sound that is unlike anything out there in Rock music right now.
Steve: My name is Steve MacLeod. I am the guitarist and co-founder of Haunted Heart. People should listen to us so I don't slap them with a fish.
2.What do you classify your sound as, Who do you tell people you sound like?
Raff: With the extreme diversity, styles and taste, and the vocals of Roxy, which is an Orthodox to the genre. haunted heart is far from your ordinary hard rock band. strong influences of blues, punk ,rock ,and metal, can be heard in our original music.
Roxy: We are a hard rock band that is energetic and soulful.
We don’t really sound like any one. We are Unique.
Steve: Hard Rock mainly but we have many different styles of music that influence the band members that is reflected in our music. I can't think of another band we really sound like, just Haunted Heart.
3.With digital music in today's world would you vote to keep or eliminate physical media?
Raff: I believe there is still room for both.
Roxy: In some form I would like to keep it although the plastic is probably not great for the environment there is something about having your favourite album physically in your hands! I like to collect things and still have many CD’s from my youth. They are like collector’s pieces!
Steve: Keep it. I believe there is still a place for it. I buy cds at shows all the time myself and play them when driving. LPs have made a bit of a comeback as well, my daughter loves records and has an amazing collection of them.

4.What is the reason you decided to be a musician and has that reason paid off?
Raff: why else the love of music ,and of course.
Roxy: I feel I was given a gift that I want to share with the world. I want people to feel something when I sing! I love performing for crowds in bars and love feeling the crowd’s energy! I want them to forget about their troubles and just feel the music. I feel that energy every time we perform! When I see the people singing along to the songs!!! I feel the music with them! Thanks to social media and things like internet radio we already have fans from all around the world! It is so amazing watching my childhood dreams beginning to manifest at this point in my life!!! I never expected this!!
Steve: I didn't, the music chose me. A musician is not what I do (I don't make my living with it), it is what I am. Music has driven my heart and soul for as long as I can remember. It pays off every time something I've helped to create can bring enjoyment to another.
5.How do you feel about females in metal getting special attention? Do you feel it is fair?
Raff: I wasn't aware they got special attention? if it's all good attention that's fine.
Roxy: I think Females in metal should get more attention!! Lol! I am still new to this scene but from what I have seen so far I still think they deserve more attention!! There are a few Local Toronto Females in Rock like Jacqueline Lovely Perras and Deb Aruda The lead singer of Madam! I really look up to Them and they have been very supportive of me coming into this scene! They Have such powerful Voices and they are definitely Powerful Women in the Toronto Rock Scene! They defintlity Deserve a lot of credit for doing what they do!!
Steve: I grew up having an amazing musician father and step-mother who was an incredible singer. The first album I owned was Blondie - Eat to the Beat. I have always been a huge fan of a great female voice so I love hearing the ladies in music. As for 'special attention', I think everyone regardless of gender or anything else should be appreciated for the music they bring and not any other reason. Unless the female is Roxanne De Longo Campbell - then you should definitely pay extra extra attention and it's totally fair yeah.
6.In the world climate with hatred being at an all time high and metal being an “ angry” music
Do you think your music contributes to anger and hatred?
Raff: absolutely not. This question goes back many years they've been saying this. Was bullshit then, and bullshit now
Roxy: I don’t think Metal is Angry music. But I do feel Music is a way of expressing yourself and I would rather have somone express anger through music than acts of violence. To say Hatred is at an all time high is really almost feeding the hatred. I think this question is worded incorrectly and will only add to people expressing hate and anger. Why not speak of how we can change the world for the better and create music that feeds unity and awareness so instead of feeling anger we can feel Love for one another and Rock out together though Music!!
Steve: I punched the last fucker who tried to tell me metal is an angry and hateful medium. I punched him, then ripped off his head and shit down his throat. Then calmly explained to his bloody corpse that no it really isn't at all.
7.Are you opposed to religious beliefs or politics being used in music?

Raff: No
Roxy: No I believe Music is expression

Steve: I am not at all no.

8.We have dive into some pretty deep issues here do you think your music sends a message and if so what is it?

Raff: I hope it sends a message. I believe our messages it's OK to hurt, it's OK to be sad, it's OK to be mad, you don't need to be perfect. I feel everyone's reaching for some kind of perfection today, we're all under microscope's with social media and such. That we stopped seeing each other as individuals, and that we're all human that we all have cracks ,and that's what makes us great.
Roxy: I think our message is Just Be yourself and Have a Rockin Good Time!!! Come together and Rock it out y’ know!! All of us in the band are all so different but we all come together to create this really cool sound and Vibe!

Steve: Our music definitely does send a very important message. The message is 'buy our shit please so we can make more music'. Maybe more then that too idk, I don't write the lyrics.

9.The market has changed and many bands believe that record labels are a thing of the past, with many labels now charging bands to “sign” how do you think a band can make it in todays scene?

Raff: I think in this digital age it's easier for bands today. In some ways I feel it's obviously easier to get your music out there and heard. I do believe the labels are becoming a thing of the past.

Roxy: I believe bands could make it on their own if they work hard at it and believe in themselves! And never take “No” for an answer!
Steve: It's a hard road. I don't know if there's a 'making it' anymore, you have to do it for the love and passion of music. Always do your best to entertain and give people your best.

10.Why with the thousands of options including netflix , sporting events everything on demand
Why do you think people should take the time to listen to what you have to say in your music?

Raff: I think people will listen to what we have to say, And I'll tell you why. Even with all the distractions of Netflix and such. I still believe music is our strongest force that brings us together. and heels us. Can't get that from Netflix. Lol

Roxy: Beacause We ROCK!!!

Steve: Why should people take the time to listen to us? Cause I'm liable to slap a motherfucker with a fish if they're not paying attention. Netflix and chill and slapped with a fish, is that really what you want? No, I really don't think so.

11.How do you feel about pay to play? Do you think it is fair for a band to have to pay money to play?

Raff: I think it sucks, no I don't think it's fair but looks like it's becoming the norm probably have to get used to it. if you want to play.

Roxy: No I don’t agree with this I think if they want to do it for exposure that’s fine but I don’t think Bands should Pay! I mean again I am new to this scene but I find that the weirdest thing! Just hand over money you don’t have? I don’t get it. Maybe I’m just old fashioned or something but I would rather work out a deal like percentage of door sales or something and even if you don’t make any money at least you get the experience.

Steve: Well I'm not really crazy about the idea. However, I know people who do this, a friend of mine is a promoter like this.
I love the shows this person brings in to the city. It is an opportunity to maybe share a stage with a hero of yours, and with the crowd and media attention that comes with it, if you make sure you're matched well and are playing to your target audience you can definitely pick up a lot of attention and new fans. Bands know the deal, up to them if they take it or not, nobody is forcing anyone. It's just paying for extra exposure, not really that different then paying for PR is it?

12.It is fact that you are the talent and the entertainment explain what you think is the most important key to success?
Raff: most important key to success. I would say family. The band is a family communication respect, and love each other.

Roxy: I believe it is important to be entertaining for an audience. To capture their attention- to connect with the audience. I believe in working hard and loving what you do because that is what will capture the audience. Believe in yourself and be true to yourself.

Steve: The most important key to success, for me, is to have great band mates, then the rest will take care of itself.
If you have consistency and longevity in your band and a great atmosphere with them then the creativity will flourish and people will sense that this is a band having a great time. That attitude is infectious and people will respond and enjoy that.

13.In country music and even in some cases rock music is written and performed by different people would your band perform a song written by someone else?
Raff: absolutely not!!

Roxy: We perform songs by other people all the time! I think it’s great!

Steve: Well we do covers as well so we're already playing the music of others. If someone were to write a song specifically for us to perform, as long as I like the tune yeah sure, but it’s not the same as performing your own.
14.If you are pro female in music are you pro using sex to sell your music?

Raff:
Roxy: Of course I am Pro female in music! I am pro female in all aspects of life! Lol!! Females Rock!!!

I believe that music can arouse many feelings in people I believe in being yourself and feeling sexual is a natural emotion. Music is Sexy! Especially Rock lol! It has a very primal animalistic energy and if that sells more records well then it is what it is!

Steve: Sure, use whatever works for you. I wouldn't say that we do that, we really are just focused on the music, but others can do whatever they want.

15.What is your view on the lawsuits against people saying lewd or unprofessional things to women or men and how does that affect an art described as sex drugs and rock n roll ?

Raff: I think we sue each other too much in society today. and I've always hated that description sex drugs rock 'n' roll. Really has nothing to do with the music.

Roxy: I think abuse is abuse no matter who you are. It is totally unacceptable!! And the I always thought the art of Sex Drugs and Rock and Roll was always consenting Sex Drugs and Rock and Roll! Freedom! Not Rape, Roofies and Rock and Roll wtf?!?!
Steve: I don’t like lawsuits, I don’t like people saying stupid shit, so they should all go away and the rest of us can enjoy CONSENTUAL sex drugs and rock n roll.

16. Ok lets lighten up a bit. What is your favorite band of all time and why?

Raff: I don't have a favourite band. There are many. I do have a favourite type of music. I guess it would be 80s hair metal. And I know you're going to say yeah overproduce crap LOL but there's just something about the sleaziness to it. I know that sounds bad, but I love me some Mötley Crüe.
Roxy: LOL ok good!

My Favourite Band ever is Nirvana. I just love all the lyrics and Kurts Voice. He Had the most beautiful voice. I love to Listen to The Unplugged in new York Album. Where your can feel every word he sings.

Steve: Way too many to pick one - Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Iron Maiden and The SoapGirls are a few.

17.What would you be doing if you were not in a band?
Raff: I'd be looking for one

Roxy: Well I would Still be a busy Mom!! But I would probably be singing in the Church Choir and of course heading to The Copy Machine Jam at the Frog and Crown on Wednesday Nights!!
Steve: I am already first and foremost a family man with a wife, daughter and two step-kids. I am also an IT professional. I guess if I were not in a band I'd practice and go look for a band
18. Do you have a favorite sports team?

Raff: yes not telling you which one

Roxy: Raptors of course!! Lol We the North! We The Champs!! I love any Toronto team! The Toronto Maple Leafs! We watch a lot of Hockey at my house!! I just love getting together with friends and Cheering for your home Team!! And of Course Argentina when the World Cup is on!!
Steve: Yes - Winnipeg Blue Bombers. I grew up in Winnipeg and that the Canadian Football League team there.

Also - it's impossible to live in Toronto and not get caught up in the NBA Champions - The Toronto Raptors.

That was just an amazing time to be in this city
19.If you could get on stage with anyone dead or alive who would it be?

Raff: RJD

Roxy: Dolly Parton!! I love her so much!! Her light Just shines. She is Amazing! She is my Idol!!!

Steve: It would definitely be that new Canadian hard rock band Haunted Heart. Oh shit, and I do get on stage with them, I'm a lucky guy.

20.This is your shot to let loose, Throw down your biggest complaint about the music biz

Raff: yeah that can get me in trouble we still need a record deal so I'm gonna keep my mouth shut.

Roxy: I feel like all the music is the same!! Especially what is popular at this Time. Everyone sounds the same! Its like I’ve heard it all before you know? I think the Music Scene needs something Different!! The World needs us! The world is Ready to Rock with Haunted Heart!!!

Steve: My biggest issue with today's music business is that people rarely buy music anymore.

If everyone who listens and enjoys our latest single just went to hauntedheartband.bandcamp.com or iTunes anywhere else it's for sale and bought it then we could record a whole new CD for you

https://hauntedheartband.bandcamp.com
https://store.cdbaby.com/cd/hauntedheart
https://hauntedheart.ca
https://www.facebook.com/HauntedHeartBand/

Wednesday, June 19, 2019

CARRY THE TORCH Are Touched By Their ‘Obsession’

Many of the tracks on Obsession, the new album from Carry The Torch, were originally written in 2009/2010. Over the next few years, Philip (guitars) honed these raw gems into more coherent and melodic structures which form the base of the albums sound.

Philip (vocals) brought in Dennis to contribute towards lyrics and melody and together they continued to rewrite and rearrange the songs. Some songs were kept in their original form (Bow Down, Awakening), others were torn apart, rebuilt, rearranged and so on. For example, the track New Hell contains just one original riff from the old version, the rest was written in 2016. Most of the songs were made in a similar way, however, they did spend more time of arrangements, melodies and hooks this time to create the very best they were able to make which in their own opinion they achieved.

All guitars were recorded in his home studio by Philip. He also programmed all the drums for this particular release (Björn joined after the record already recorded and the bass was done by the groups old friend, Håkan Johansson.

Lyrically, the theme of the album became ‘fire’. In some songs this can be represented in a few words and in others such as The Scorching and Flame Of A 1000 Suns, the whole thing is based on the concept of fire rising from the ashes and also with some apocalyptic feelings to it.

The vocals were recorded at a studio in Mörbylånga, Öland, close to where Dennis was born, which made him feel at home and had a great deal of impact on the way everything came out. Carry The Torch are very proud of their efforts on Obsession have never been this excited to unleash their new album to an unsuspecting world.

Keep the flame burning and enjoy!

Obsession | Released July 2nd, 2019 on Sliptrick Records

Carry The Torch are:
Dennis Johansson – Vocals | Philip Nilsson – Guitar | Victor Wahlstedt – Guitar | Björn Lindgren – Drums

Band links: Facebook | Youtube | Instagram | On Sliptrick

Tuesday, June 18, 2019

AS I MAY NTERVIEW

1.Introduce yourself and your band and tell us why we should listen to you.

As I May is a four-piece modern melodic metal band from Mikkeli, Finland – formed in 2016.

Members are Tipi Nokelainen (vocals and bass), Lasse Hiltunen (vocals and guitar), Jani Valhola (backup vocals and guitars) and Marko Korhonen (drums).

The band has grown into a Finnish metal genre in a short time. Our music has been streamed more than a million times and has played around the world on radios.

2.What do you classify your sound as, Who do you tell people you sound like?

We play modern metal that combines post-hardcore, nu core and traditional Finnish metal sound.

We sound the most modernized combination of In Flames and Amorphis.

3.With digital music in today's world would you vote to keep or eliminate physical media?

Absolutely to keep! People want to experience deeper touch on albums and this is also reflected in the huge increase in sales of vinyl records. It seems that some people want to test the album by streaming before buying it.

As well, streaming services make listening to music easier in many situations. So both are needed.

I don’t think either of these options will go away, but after the digital hangover people have really started to miss physical products.

4.What is the reason you decided to be a musician and has that reason paid off?

I was 8 years old when I first heard Anthrax’s album and that was the moment when I really interested in metal music.

The first time I heard Enter Sandman was that kind of experience that I wanted to start produce that same noise!

We have had a good opportunity for self-fulfilment and to grow as a band. The future looks really good to us!

People seem to be identified with our music and they add it to their playlists more than we could imagine.

5.How do you feel about females in metal getting special attention? Do you feel it is fair?

I don’t think females are getting any special attention.

It’s amazing have really skilled female artists and women as a head of band.

We come from Finland, where we have a lot of talented female musicians.

I see it as a challenge for women, that yet there isn’t so many female metal musicians so they are usually compared to each other.

6.In the world climate with hatred being at an all time high and metal being an “ angry” music

Do you think your music contributes to anger and hatred?

Absolutely not! It seems that metal music listeners can channel their feelings much better than people who don’t listen metal.

Anyone who listens to metal knows it’s not a hell of anger. It’s just a genre that uses more emotions than many other genre.

Many musicians also deal with in-depth thoughts in metal music.

7.Are you opposed to religious beliefs or politics being used in music?

Yes and no. As I May is a non-political band and I think that music and politics do not mix.

On the other hand, when you think a band like Rage Against the Machine, maybe it’s not such a bad idea to bring up with music things that require change.

8.We have dive into some pretty deep issues here do you think your music sends a message and if so what is it?

We doesn’t have any special agenda in our music. Each song has its own separate story, most of are written so that they can have multiple meanings.

9.The market has changed and many bands believe that record labels are a thing of the past, with many labels now charging bands to “sign” how do you think a band can make it in todays scene?

Record labels are really good marketing platforms and also contacts for bands. I think that it has been more difficult for labels to adapt to this change.

But still I see the advantage that the band has a record label that grows and develops the band forward future goals.

It’s true that today it’s not obligatory to have a record label. After a certain point, the workload will grow so big that it may be better for the band to focus on making and playing music.

I see it as a great advantage that we have two record labels on different continents and also manager and booking agency.

It will help us focus on better on the essentials. I think gigs can now be the biggest earning method fo bands.

We have never done this for money, it’s mainly a dream that in the future we could concentrate on full-time music.

10.Why with the thousands of options including netflix , sporting events everything on demand

Why do you think people should take the time to listen to what you have to say in your music?

Well our new album is like whole story. You need to listen it from the beginning to the end to get a full experience.

It's like journey. You will hear great melodies, big singalong choruses. That is what we do: catchy melodies and big choruses. Your head is banging and couple seconds later you will hear very beautiful sounding parts.

Album sounds huge, I mean really huge. We broke a new record in our producers studio. Album has 529 different tracks. Yep, 529 tracks and just little over 30 min.

It's fast moving forward and just stays in vibes so long that you have little time to breath before it`s time to go again. There's small details every where. You can`t hear all of those at one listening.

It´s just something that you won`t expect. If you like metal, catchy melodies, big choruses, modern sounds, this is album for you!

11.How do you feel about pay to play? Do you think it is fair for a band to have to pay money to play?

I hope it’s not going to happen that way, but maybe also many of the big band have started that way.

It’s understandable that many small bands will go on tour together to cover the costs and that’s the way they can get to the tour.

12.It is fact that you are the talent and the entertainment explain what you think is the most important key to success?

Only a great music and that you are ready to do a lot of hard work for success.

13.In country music and even in some cases rock music is written and performed by different people would your band perform a song written by someone else?

No. We have the ability to make good functional songs ourselves.

But maybe sometimes in the futureit might be nice to make a cover of a song that the whole band gets excited about.

However, we don’t want to ride anyone else’s material into the famous.

14.If you are pro female in music are you pro using sex to sell your music?

We cannot take a stand on this thing.

15.What is your view on the lawsuits against people saying lewd or unprofessional things to women or men and how does that affect an art described as sex drugs and rock n roll ?

We cannot take a stand on this thing.

16. Ok lets lighten up a bit. What is your favorite band of all time and why?

In Flames. I don’t think that we have to explain that more.

17.What would you be doing if you were not in a band?

Some other creative work.

18. Do you have a favorite sports team?

We are from Finland so we are crazy about ice hockey. The whole country is messed up when Finland wins the world championship in ice hockey like this year.

So I say that Finnish national team in ice hockey and also local ice hockey team Jukurit.

19.If you could get on stage with anyone dead or alive who would it be?

Finnish national composer Jean Sibelius.

20.This is your shot to let loose, Throw down your biggest complaint about the music biz

We come from Finland, so we don’t complain anything. If there’s something that doesn’t work, then we just work as a hell so it’s gonna work.

We are satisfied with our band growth and how we go forward