Of All Things Metal.........

Member Merry-Go-Round

2012-02-13T22:31:00.000-08:00

So, after spending time on one of my favorite sites, metalsucks.net, it hit me that in this day and age band members change like dirty socks at times. I understand that people change, some bands desire to grow, while others remain the same but individual members change for a litany of reasons. Bands as in life change as change is inevitable. Lead singers, bassists, and guitarists seems to go in and out of bands for personal, professional and monetary reasons. Truly, I don't care, yet as a metal/hard rock fan I've come to the conclusion that its all meaningless; I just want to hear the music I love.

Hell, think of all the reformed bands with members who've buried the hatchet or all-new members and their are now 2 touring versions of some bands. Think, L.A. Guns.

I saw Foreigner last October with none of the original members as guitarist Mick Jones was recovering from an illness. No one seemed to care and they still put on a hell of a show. Of course, the pipes of Kelly Hansen provided some authenticity.

Nonetheless, it made think of how many bands are still active with all original members 20 plus years into their career? I could only come up with two; Motley Crue and Poison. Sure the Crue have their Vegas residency going on, yet Poison is hardly active. Furthermore, both bands went on for a number of years without key members, Poison without C.C. DeVille and Motley without Vince Neil. Slayer has all original members at the moment, yet were without the services of Dave Lombardo from 1992 until his return in 2002.

Its mind-boggling to me. My favorites such as Metallica, Anthrax (a bit of a merry-go-round with vocalists within the past 6-7 years themselves). Acts such as KISS, Megadeth, and Journey continue to tour successfully without key members from their 70s and 80s heyday. From lower rung bands such as Pretty Boy Floyd, Bulletboys to bigger names such as Guns N Roses, Great White have had their share of member discourse and continue to tour with varying degrees of success.

Meanwhile, Van Halen have returned to the scene with original singer David Lee Roth but not bassist Michael Anthony. Some fans are still bitter with this fact. However, how many ever thought Diamond Dave and Eddie would be able to work together again? Nevertheless, I'm just Van Halen have released a killer album in A Different Kind of Truth.

I guess this balances all the disharmony in other metal/rock bands. Long live Van Halen!!!

Orion Music + More Festival

2012-02-07T22:53:00.000-08:00

Metallica announced today they will be hosting their own festival, Orion Music + More on June 22-24 of this year. Avenged Sevenfold, The Sword and others will be featured along with Metallica themselves. Vendors, and a plethora of other activities will be available with more details to follow. Future updates will come via http://www.orionmusicandmore.com.

Metallica will close both concert days as they perform The Black album one night and Ride the Lightning on the other.

Personally, I think this is a great idea and I'd love to attend, yet it isn't feasible for myself to do so. I've never seen Metallica myself, but you never know.

I'm sure many detractors and haters will have plenty to say, yet I say "fuck em". Metallica can do whatever they want and I only wish them luck. They are innovators, legends, trailblazers and I hope this becomes a yearly event for years to come.

The Unbreakable Primal Fear

2012-02-04T22:28:00.000-08:00

Over the last few years, I've heard/read about the German Primal Fear carrying the flag for "true" heavy metal and thought nothing of it. How wrong I have been!

Recently, I came across an ad banner on metalsucks.net to stream their new album Unbreakable, and gave it a whirl.

Wow, talk about a shock to the system and a breath of fresh air. While I love the screaming thrash of Pantera, Metallica, Anthrax, Exodus and Machine Head, Primal Fear truly brings the metal.

At times I can close my eyes and I hear Rob Halford, yet its the amazing voice of Ralf Scheepers. The power of guitarists Magnus Karlsson, Alexander Beyrodt, bassist
Mat Sinner, bass, and drummer Randy Black cannot be denied.

The opening track, "Unbreakable Part 1" is an anti-climatic instrumental, then the madness begins with "Strike". This reminds of a Painkiller era Judas Priest. Its a metal lover's paradise with the twin melodic hooks and guitars, pounding rhythms, clean/falsetto vocals and blazing solos. My advice is to hold on tight!

I am hesitant to select a favorite as they are all top notch. The single/video for "Good Guys Wear Black' is excellent, and I love "And There Was Silence" and "Give Em Hell". "Where Angels Die" slows down the tempo somewhat with a touch of keyboards. Nonetheless, its a killer tune. "Marching Again" is a galloping piece of thunderous metal also. "Born Again" slows the tempo also without coming across as the "radio-ballad". Great harmonies and terrific solo. "Conviction" completes the metal assault with brilliant two-part guitar harmonies.

All I know is that by track 5 my neck was getting sore and I could not help but bang my head. At 55 minutes you get your money's worth. What astounds me is the number of bends throughout the album which are crystal clear. As a guitarist myself, I found this to be awesome.

So what is the message of Unbreakable? Be proud, crank it to 11 and fly the metal flag strong and loud.

Do yourself a favor and buy this classy piece of metal that beckons the classic sounds of Maiden and Priest while putting the stamp of Primal Fear on it. You won't be disappointed.

Accept Shall Return Again!

2012-01-18T17:01:00.000-08:00

Not too many bands are able to change lead singers successfully and return with one of their strongest albums ever. Nonetheless, Accept did so with 2010's Blood of the Nations, along with new singer Mark Turnillo. How many individuals can replace a legend such as UDO? Turnillo did so in remarkable fashion and helping restablishing Accept as one of the premier heavy metal bands. In the spring of 2012, Accept will release Stalingrad and I'm sure it will kick some serious ass as its predecessor. I will be looking forward to this myself and I may have to make their April show in Seattle at El Corazon. For now, enjoy Pandemic from Blood of Nations.

Another Sad State of Affairs

2012-01-14T21:21:00.000-08:00

It seems that after many years of not performing together, the Bulletboys "one-night only reunion" at the Key Club in Hollywood has perpetuated a minor war of words. Lead singer Marq Torien has stated that he is open to touring and recording with his former bandmates, Mick Sweda, Jimmy D'Anda, and Lonnie Vincent.

Nonetheless, it seems it comes to money and equal shares between all four members. My only question is if the public is clamoring for Bulletboys in general? Don't get me wrong, I'm all for a band to tour for the love of music and musical expression. However, as I'm learning, music isn't all about the spirit of rock n roll and having a good time. Everyone desires to make money however they can which is a human construct for survival. Thus, their are musical decisions and business decisions. Lawyers, money and contracts seemingly get in the way of band harmony.

Quiet Riot recently parted ways with singer Mark Huff, right before he was to be undergoing brain surgery. Great White members and singer Jack Russell are publicly in a spat over group rights. There is still 2 versions of LA Guns touring. Former Dokken members George Lynch, Jeff Pilson and Mick Brown have formed a band Tooth and Nail and will be recording original material and reworking old Dokken tunes minus singer Don Dokken. Is it money, greed, business, or artistic integrity that these individuals are fighting for?

Maybe it is the state of the modern rock n roll business that is finally catching up to everyone as they scramble for survival?

Times are tight as we all know. It seems like the only 80s band with original members intact is Motley Crue, who have hinted at disbanding at the end of their Las Vegas run. This is the heavy metal, rock n roll business in the 21st century, which is far different from the carefree MTV days of the 80s and early 90s.

I'm guessing that within the next few years the scene will either blow up or another innovative band (or group of individuals) will come along to keep the scene from drying up. I'd like to believe there will be a saving grace. Until then, rock on, click on the link below and turn it up!

Tatoo You!

2012-01-10T21:54:00.000-08:00

No, I;m not talking about the Stones, but Van Halen has been around the block a time or two just the same. Most importantly, we have new music from Dave and the boys. That inofitself is awesome! No need to overanalyze it. Alex, Dave and Eddie, the guitar god he is, all sound great. Back in '07 when they reunited for a tour, I truly wanted a new album and its almost here. Lordy, Eddie can still rip it up!! Sad to think the only album I own is Best of Volume I. I believe my next purchase will be A Different Kind of Truth. Let's face it, Gary Cherone (a great vocalist)never fit, Sammy (was well, Sammy) did a great job, but no one is like good ole Dave. Wolfgang or not, have at it boys!

I'm Not Really Ashamed.....

2012-01-05T21:49:00.000-08:00

Since I wanted to do something different, I'm volunteering at the only radio station in town (small town in WA). The station plays mainly 30s, 40s, 50s and 60s tunes and is totally non-profit and everyone volunteers their time. I think it will be fun as I'm going to learn sound editing (Pro Tools)and I practiced a bit today with some voice editing.

Anyway, when I was talking to the program director he asked what type of music I liked, if I listen to the radio, if I've listened to the station at all, ect. I've only heard the station just a few times truthfully, yet I told him that I enjoy the music from my youth, 80s rock and pop. At one point I mentioned, KISS and Van Halen, which I DO LIKE. Yet, I was hesitant to say, "I like heavy metal". I'm sitting here wondering, Why can't I say when asked about my music tastes say I like Heavy Metal? Really, what do I care what others think? I almost mentioned Metallica to this gentleman, but I didn't.

Music has always been a personal thing for myself. Yet, its a fear for myself to say "dammit, I love heavy metal!". Metal is a recognized genre, always relevant and more so than pop music. You can't tell me that "I kissed a girl and I liked it" is more socially relevant than Iced Earth "Dystopia" or Iron Maiden's "Different World" or "Run to the Hills".

Pop music is mostly fluff, with some inspirational stuff out there. I don't care much for Lady Gaga's stuff but I respect her somewhat because she is real. Heavy Metal is real and many artists are beyond the sex, drugs and rock and roll themes (sans Motorhead of course). So why do I feel I need to justify as to why I like metal?

The answer is I don't. When I was younger I loved Poison, Dokken, Def Leppard, Warrant, Motley Crue, Bon Jovi and Ratt; Maiden and Priest were good, but I liked the harder rock more than HEAVY METAL. Metallica, Anthrax and Megadeth had some songs I liked but its the so-called "hair bands" that were it. Fast forward some twenty years and most of those groups' tunes have not aged well.

I will admit to still liking Bon Jovi(put on a great concert)Dokken and some Crue, yet I've seemingly gotten heavier. I give full full credit to Ian Christie's book Sound of the Beast, which I bought cheap for $2 at a resale shop. Thanks to Ian< I've made up for 30 years of lost metal. At times I think, Look at what I was missing!. The genius of Maiden, and Priest. The brutality of Slayer, Sepultura and Pantera. The speed and layers that make up Metallica, Anthrax, Exodus, Overkill, Black Label Society. The list goes on and on as I've discovered bands that most Americans have never heard who say they like hard rock such as Pretty Maids, Kreator, Saxon, or even Loudness. One of the recent discoveries is Iced Earth and they've been around 20 years! The list goes on and on. Some days I just can't get enough. My wife looks at me like I'm nuts sometimes, but she doesn't judge me on my metal tastes. I use my headphones at lot and when she isn't around, the dogs cringe.

In a nutshell, I have no reason to hide from my musical tastes and passion for heavy metal. I don't ahve to enjoy what others like and others don't have to enjoy what I like. It's called freedom of choice and to my grave I shall choose Heavy Metal!

Best Songs of 2011

2011-12-23T22:53:00.000-08:00

Since its so damn hard to narrow down a list to one, I chose my favorite songs of the year. Songs that endured many multiple listens during the course of 2011, running the gamut of metal, hard rock, and AOR.

Metallica - Hell and Back

No need to mention Lulu here. 2008's Death Magnetic was a great album and the recently released Beyond Magnetic EP features 4 tracks that easily could've been included. I love the endless back and forth of the clean and distorted verse and chorus riffs that goes on for days. Metallica is as strong as ever and will continue as long as they desire.

Night Ranger Say It With Love

Perhaps my favorite of the year. Somewhere In California spent nearly 3 weeks of constant play in my car as this is top notch from top to bottom. I love the underlying keyboards(yes, I have no problem with keyboards!)and the lyrical content. My only disappointment was not seeing them play it live in October.

Journey City of Hope

All I can say is wow, Journey released a monster of an album with Eclipse. While not a traditional Journey album, Neal Schon unleashes a ton of killer guitar work and Arnel Pineda sings his ass off. Its such an uplifting song and sounded great live!

Anthrax Fight 'Em Till You Can't

Another long-awaited release that I was happy to see. John Bush is a great vocalist, but Joey Belladonna is the voice of Anthrax. This would be a great horror movie soundtrack song and my neck is sore upon every listen. Charlie, Scott and the boys unleashed a great slab of metal for us diehard metalheads. Great riffs, tempo changes that reckon back to the 80s with a modern feel.

Steel Panther If You Really Really Love Me

If you don't get joke, you miss the greatness of these dudes. Sure, the lyrics are hard to take seriously, but then look at what the 80s groups sang of back in the day. Balls Out continues the trend of glam cliches with over the top lyrics and they do it so damn good. Satchel plays killer riffs and leads, and Michael Starr can sing with the best and his screams are off the charts. This song is so catchy and I laugh everytime. Music is supposed to be about having a good time right?

Black N Blue - So Long

After 8 long years my favorite hometown band finally delivered a new album, Hell Yeah!. Though Tommy Thayer is no longer a member, Jaimie and the boys deliver kick ass hard rock the way it should; fun, loud and raunchy. Definitely a fringe band, which is why I still love em!

Alice Cooper - I’ll Bite Your Face Off

I like concept albums though I never got into Welcome to My Nightmare. Alice is a legend and its great to see him releasing new stuff regardless. Nightmare 2 was a strong effort but I love the groove of this song. The title alone is an attention grabber and this song just plain rocks.

Warrant - Life's A Song

Warrant without Jani Lane (RIP) truly sounds like a different band. Nonetheless, this infectious, melodic track sticks in your head with lyrics I relate to. Rockaholic was okay album but Robert Mason sings the hell out of this song and I always dug his stuff with Big Cock.

Best EP of 2011

2011-12-23T22:22:00.000-08:00

To myself, this is a no-brainer. Demos or not, these are damn good songs, and could've easily been on Death Magnetic. I've read and heard others whine that the sound quality isn't all that good, but I say who cares? I don't concern myself with the highest sound quality, HD television, etc. All I care is that it sounds good LOUD, and Beyond Magnetic most certainly does.

I love the repetitiveness of the riffs and the back and forth of choruses and riffs. That is what I enjoyed of "Broken, Beat and Scarred" off Death Magnetic, and that is what you get with "Just a Bullet Away". The opening riff of "Hell And Back" starts clean then hits you over the head with a classic head bobbing riff, continuing with that interplay throughout the track. "Hate Train" and "Rebel of Babylon" are just great, great tracks. Furthermore, all the tempo changes which seems to be a Metallica trademark are well cemented through.

Having just finished celebrating 30 years together, this proves to me that James, Lars, Robert and Kirk still have plenty left in their proverbial metal tank.

I'm proud to say that Metallica has provided me with some tasty music for the holiday season!

Worst Video of 2011 (Ever?)

2011-12-22T21:37:00.000-08:00

Alternative Reality, a band out of Cleveland, Ohio, released the following video for their song, "The King That Never Was". If you haven't seen this yet, I suggest don't try, unless of courrse you have morbid curiousity. I respect any band that is able to write, record and produce their own stuff. Nonetheless, its unwatchable. The 80s had tons of cheesy videos, bad songs and lousy groups, yet it is in the eye of the beholder. Respectfully, this is just bad. I suppose any of the songs I've tried to write and sing myself, may not be fit for human consumption. You will either close your browser, die from laughing, or reach for the garbage can. The riff is generic, the vocals with the screams are laughable and the lead singer's movements and head banging must be a joke. These gentleman make Poison and Pretty boy Floyd seem like Sabbath and Zeppelin.

Most Disappointing Moment!

2011-12-19T22:33:00.000-08:00

At times I wonder if Van Halen really does still exist or if the guys are playing with our hearts. I believe that someday soon VH will release an album that kicks everybody's ass and once again proves they are one of the greatest bands of all time. With the quintessential lead man, arguably the greatest rock guitarist ever and a madman on drums, how can they not. Its amazing in this day and age that no leaks exist on the web. As we were all hoping to have at least a single released to get us all salivating, nothing has appeared. No Grammy Nominations Show appearance either and we are all left waiting. I guess Ed and the boys are waiting for the right moment and I suppose it will come. For now enjoy one of my personal VH tunes (Wiith the original members no less).

Most Cringeworthy Moment of 2011

2011-12-19T22:06:00.000-08:00

While I tributes to deserving individuals and their accomplishments, Bret Michaels' offering for Regis' farewell is damn embarrassing and hands-down an utter disgrace. I uploaded the video if you dare. On the other hand, don't bother clicking it and take my word for it. How about some new Poison music Bret? On second thought, based on this offering, continue touring as a legacy act and keep recycling those 80s hits into the ground.

End of The Year Review

2011-12-17T23:04:00.000-08:00

Here at Of All Things Metal, the end of year review is my perceptions of the best, worst, lame, maybe even embarassing moments in the rock and metal world.

Over the last weeks of 2011 I will unveil different choices, moments, adulation, praise and contempt on revelation at a time.

All based on my own personal experiences and thoughts, readers can feel free to criticize, laugh, throw stuff, cry or be preturbed; it is all your own choice. Therefore, let's get it on!

Album of The Year
Night Ranger Somewhere in California

As discussed earlier this fall, Night Ranger released one of their best recorded pieces of music in years. From top to bottom, Somewhere in California is chock full of tight rhythms, excellent dual guitar artisry, solid hooks and memorable choruses and harmonies. My only question is, what took so long?

While many headbangers will claim this to be of the wrong ilk, and too soft, this is an excellent album that brings a smile to my fave every time. Definitely a hard rockin' good time.

Great White 1.0 vs. Great White 2.0

2011-12-13T22:22:00.000-08:00

Over the weekend Great White singer Jack Russell says he is ready to return, albeit with his own version of Great White. While the rock world was surprised with this announcement, the unfolding of events continued on Tuesday with Great White (Mark Kendal, Michael Lardie, and co.) saying Jack doesn't have the right to start his own version of the band. Furthermore, they claim to be surprised, expected him to be ready to go in 2012, mention his troubles with sobriety and some stringent requirements for him to follow.

Its now turning ugly folks. Jack did an interview on www.metalsludge.tv/home, further backing his claims and its a real he said/she said.

So now the rock world will have two Great Whites, LA Guns,Sweet and I'll need some bar graphs, pocket rulers and calculators to keep track. Its all kind of sad.

Regardless of what all went down, I totally dislike it when groups air their dirty laundry. Isn't there enough garbage in the world already?

Then I realized both Great White and Great White featuring Jack Russell are using the free enterprise system. Both camps desire to perform and make money while owning their opportunity to do so. So I say good luck and god bless both versions in doing so.

I suppose fans will then have to decide if they want to hear the original singer or the original guitarist. Even more, we can all choose not to watch either version, crank our Great White CDs, watch YouTube clips of years past and enjoy the nostalgia of the 80s.

Really, its just so rock n' roll.

Band Merchandising/State of the Music Industry

2011-12-05T19:14:00.000-08:00

With the state of the recording industry in seemingly a state of disarray and touring playing a bigger part of revenues, merchandising has become a huge part.

While KISS, Bon Jovi, U-2, and Metallica continue to draw huge numbers, smaller bands have a more difficult time drawing crowds and making money. Packaged tours have become prevalent and bands do not sell out stadiums. Many metal and rock bands play smaller venues including casinos and clubs.

Furthermore, in the Internet age there is a gluttony of music and artists available for consumption with many genres available within metal; hardcore, grindcore, blackened death metal, electronic hardcore, and screamo to name a few. This is great for fans to discover new groups.

Nonetheless, how can these smaller niche bands make money? I read stories of groups on various sites of piling too many people in vans, touring for six months and actually losing money. With record sales down due to an outdated model,and illegal downloading, many groups are either releasing their own cds or distributing them through Europe-based lables such as Frontiers. In addition, its easier to make homemade recordings and demos and release a couple of tracks on a band's website or through iTunes. Even more, unless you are a major act, band members may hold down day jobs, or they play in one or two other bands to make enough money to live on.

This is where merchandising plays a part. As KISS and Metallica are two of the biggest merchandising names out there, every band's website has a store to buy their merchandise as well as selling it at concerts. Fans may swap copied cds and download them on the Internet, yet they can still buy their Exodus or Bon Jovi concert t-shirt for roughly $20. Merchandising has always been a big part of revenue for bands yet these days it's a total must.

I came to this conclusion, last Monday (affectionately dubbed Cyber Monday as it followed Black Friday). My email was inundated with multiple email's from Black Label Society, Pantera, KISS and Motley Crue's sites with huge 20-40% discounts for purchasing multiple items or offering free shipping. I must've had 30 new emails that day with three-quarters of them from music sites wanting me to buy their stuff.

I am presently trying to weed through all my stuff, donate the extra stuff I no longer need and my favorite groups are wanting me to purchase their stuff. While a new Motley Crue shirt would be great, I am selective and I don't need a Crue key chain or a Black Label Society bottle opener. I don't even buy beer in the bottle to begin with.

Yet, its so apparent that between records and tours, merchandising is huge profits for bands and becoming more important than their newest release. I don't see this as a negative, it is just a sign of the times. When the recording industry discovers a new way to entice consumers to buy a complete recordings, record sales could improve. However, the days of selling several million records seems to be a thing of the past as bands feel successful when their latest sells 200,000 copies. Who would've thought that the bar for sales success would be so low?

As the public seems to consume music like poptarts, one-at-a-time via digital downloads, full physical cds are slowly becoming a thing of the past. I recently read where major record labels will be discontinuing the recording, production and sales of music cds by the end of 2012. It seems to be a shame. However, its just another example of the development of technology. 35-40 years ago, cars had 8-track and cassette players, and we now are able to plug in our ipods and MP3 players into our vehicles.

Therefore, as the method for consuming music shifts, so shall the way bands earn revenue through merchandising their own produts. The only constant is change.

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

2011-11-23T21:30:00.000-08:00

As we near another Thanksgiving holiday, I feel the need to express my gratitude for a number of things: 1) World peace 2) An abundant life 3) My loving wife 4) Three awesome mutts 5) Heavy Metal music 6) Freedom of expression.

Furthermore, I feel the need to pay respect towards the origins of this primarily North American holiday. The first pilgrims barely survived the winter of 1620-1621. If it were not for the efforts of Squanto (a member of the Pawtuxet tribe who had been kidnapped by an English sea captain and sold into slavery), these pilgrims could've faced near extinction. Squanto taught the pilgrims how to fish and live off the land. This helped the pilgrims to survive the next year.

A common tradition in many European countries and Native American tribes was a celebration of a good harvest. Thus, in the fall of 1621, a celebration was held to give thanks for a good harvest. The roots of this American holiday is traced back to our European ancestors and the Native tribes of North America.

This, should not be forgotten. As there are no real Thanksgiving metal songs, I felt it necessary to pay tribute to Native Americans through the following songs by Anthrax.

Happy Thanksgiving to all and peace be with you.

Bret Michael's Tribute to Regis Philbin

2011-11-22T22:33:00.000-08:00

While I admire Mr. Michael's desire to pay tribute to Mr. Philbin, this is utterly horrible. It was introduced as a reworked version of Poison's classic "Every Rose Has Its Thorn", I hear no similarities. While Mr. Michaels sounded fine, the chord progressions sounded nothing like "Thorn". I barely made it through the video, all the while thinking "What the hell?". Bret can do whatever he wants but this was awful. I felt sorry that Regis had to sit through that.

Just when I think an artist can't lose anymore crediability, someone manages to set the bar even lower. I'd like to see some of that creative energy put into some new Poison music.
On second thought, I think I need to hear some Slayer.

The Best Band You Never Heard of...........Pretty Maids

2011-11-21T22:53:00.000-08:00

Don't let their name fool you, these Danish rockers can tear it up with their style of melodic heavy metal. Having been around nearly 30 years, they have seen their share of line-up changes, sans vocalist Ronnie Atkins and guitarist Ken Hammer.

Nonetheless, they have a great catalogue worth checking out. Visit their website,http://www.prettymaids.dk/, youtube.com or Amazon.com, and you will hear what I'm talking about.

I, myself, stumbled across their video of "Little Drops of Heaven" from 2010s Pandemonium, and was hooked. Heavier than Journey, more melodic than Slayer, and more powerful than Poison, Pretty Maids is perhaps one of the most under appreciated bands of the last 30 years.

Give Pretty Maids a try and you won't be disappointed.

Somewhere In California

2011-11-20T01:50:00.000-08:00

Night Ranger's latest, Somewhere in California, has been available for months now, yet deserves mention as its one of the best releases of 2011.

Having been a fan for nearly 30 years I was ecstatic to get my hands on this disc as press releases as well as the band itself claimed this to be one of their best. As many artists seem to always make this claim I went into the experience with an open mind and decided to have no expectations.

The record starts out with the sunny rocker "Growin' Up In California", which exhibits the bands' hallmarks of great melodies, twin guitars and gang vocals. "Lay It On Me" keeps the upbeat tempo with the heaviest riff they may have ever recorded. The rockin' vibe stays afloat with "Bye Bye Baby" and "Follow Your Heart". "Time of Our Lives" slows the pace down as the only ballad. However,it doesn't try to recreate the past glory of their signature "Sister Christian" and is a solid inclusion.

As the pace fires up again with "No Time to Lose Ya", "Live For Today" and "Its Not Over", I am continually reminded of the genius of Night Ranger; tight harmonies, wailing, precision guitars and straight ahead hard rock.

At this point of their career, Night Ranger could rest on their laurels, and tour as a so-called legacy act while regurgitating their parade of 80s classics. Therefore, I found this album to be quite a breath of fresh air to my ears.

"Rock and Roll Tonight" is the only track I felt to be trying to hard with a few too many cliches and quoting rock of classics.

Nonetheless, "Say it With Love" closes it down with its upbeat message and is my personal favorite. I started my day many times with this infectious rocker as I trudged my way to work.

Overall, Somewhere In California is a must have for any Night Ranger fan. This is the album I've been waiting for which would have fit perfectly right after Midnight Madness. I'm just happy that they saved this album for 2011.

Pantera......

2011-11-16T20:52:00.000-08:00

What can one say about Pantera that hasn't already been said. Having been a fan of the more bluesier hard rock and glam metal of the 80s, I had never appreciated the genius of Dime, Phil, Vinny and Rex.

I recall back in college that Pantera came on MTV as it played in our community tv room and a dude saying that "Pantera is the most pissed off band going". I remember thinking "Whatever", not being impressed and wanting to hear Warrant, Def Leppard or Poison. What the hell did I know? Fast forward nearly 20 years and I rarely desire to hear any of those former bands as they haven't aged as well as other stalwarts such as Judas Priest, Iron Maiden or the mighty Pantera.

These days I just marvel at the rhythmic riffing of Dimebag melding with the crushing rhythms of Vinny and Rex. I haven't always liked the harsh, guttural screams perpetuated by extreme bands, yet Phil varies his styles throughout their records and I believe every word he belts out.

Nonetheless, nothing gets me going like "Cowboys From Hell" or "By Demons Be Driven", especially when heading off to work. Rest assured, every December 8 I can have yearly my Black Tooth Grin as a salute to one of the most iconic, and original
guitarists ever.

What else does a true metal head need?

Metal Church.......

2011-11-11T15:11:00.000-08:00

As I've been listening to metal off and on today as I've completed household chores, taking my dog to the vet, I had to pay homage to Metal Church.

Upon reading Ian Christie's metal bible, Sound of the Beast, I truly discovered Metal Church. Formed in Seattle, WA in the early 80s, Metal Church released 9 albums over the course of twenty-odd years and numerous line-up changes. As I call Washington my home state, I may feel some kinship with these guys. Nonetheless, Metal Church was an underrated group from the 80s as superstar success eluded them that contemporaries such as Megadeth, and Anthrax enjoyed.

The original line-up included vocalist David Wayne, guitarists Kurdt Vanderhoof and Craig Wells, bassist Duke Erickson and drummer Kirk Arrington. This line-up recorded 84's self-titled debut and my favorite, 1986's The Dark. The first half of The Dark album is one of the most intense and furious sides of metal recorded in the 80s. "Ton of Bricks", and "Start the Fire" both kill me every time and "Watch the Children Pray" is a masterpiece. "Line of Death" and "Psycho" will force you to bang your head til its sore. I surely don't listen to this CD enough.

Sadly, David Wayne died in 2005 from complications following a car crash. Kurdt Vanderhoof eventually disbanded Metal Church in 2009. So we are then left with the legacies of both Metal Church and The Dark. Do yourself a favor, scour the net looking for either of these releases and you won't be disappointed.

Black Sabbath Reunion

2011-11-11T14:28:00.000-08:00

Maybe I'm in the minority. When I hear that the "original" Black Sabbath is getting back together for an album, tour next year, my thought is "okay". Is this really a surprise? Why else would there have been a huge announcement, press conference? While they are the grandfathers of "Metal", legends, and icons, I've never been a huge Sabbath fan. I didn't get them when I was 13, yet I get them now. Nonetheless, they are virtually last on my personal play list. Without Black Sabbath, heavy metal as we know may cease to exist.

Good for Ozzy, Bill, Tony and Geezer. If they are inspired for another album and the creative juices are flowing, I won't criticize them for it. Music is what they do, and part of who they are.

Black Sabbath never excited me. "Paranoid" and "Iron Man" are classic heavy metal anthems and speak to the ills of society and self pity. I acknowledge, respect and wish nothing but the best for these gentleman.

Yet, their reunion isn't impacting my life in anyway shape or form.

Nigel Tufnel Day/National Metal Day is here!

2011-11-11T10:17:00.001-08:00

A day off is always cool when its during the week and my company gave everyone a day off this week. Mine just happened to coincide with Nigel Tufnel Day, rock on! Some consider this day to also be National Metal Day, horns up!!! Then I also heard that its also another major holiday that occurs every November 11. So I thought that there is a lot to be greatful for today. In order for Americans to enjoy the freedoms we have, soldiers have fought for them. Over 1.5 million US soldiers have died in various national and global conflicts in our nation's history with over another million wounded in combat.

As I never served in the armed forces, I must pay respect to all who have served and fought for this country. God bless you all who have fought, served, died and who have been wounded in battle. May peace be with you.

Slayer vs. Metallica

2011-11-09T19:12:00.000-08:00

To some this may seem pointless, moot and unworthy of print. Nonetheless, as I went back to listen to both bands,for objectivity, I came to some quick obvious conclusions. One, both bands kick serious ass! Two, is it really necessary to pit these titans against each other? Three, its not a easy conclusion to decide who reigns supreme.

Obviously Metallica has the broader appeal as they have experimented more than Slayer. Furthermore, the average music fan can name a Metallica song ("Enter Sandman", anyone!). Even my non-metal listening wife likes "The Unforgiven" and can't name anything from Slayer. However, Slayer still furnishes the listener with brutal riffs, dark imagery and a savageness few bands can obtain. In many ways Slayer is pure evil, which is a total complement. On the other hand, Metallica is an icon in fulfilling the American dream; success, money, induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and fans worldwide many times over.

Both Kill Em All and Show No Mercy captured young, hungry bands trying to claim their piece of the metal pie. What becomes apparent to myself is that Slayer can be harder to swallow at times with their breakneck speeds, down tuned guitars and the growling of Tom Araya. This isn't a bad thing, yet its not made for commercial consumption. Kill Em All has its growling, shouted choruses and vocals and is punk inspired in many ways. Metallica wants you to join the metal cause and enjoy the ride while Slayer wants to pummel the listener into oblivion. So is accessibility better? Not necessarily. As I write this I'm listening to "Hell Awaits" and it kills with the tempo change from mid-tempo to here-it-comes as we bash you over the skull!

Kerry King or James Hetfield? Kerry plays amazing rhythms at breakneck speeds and is all over the map while James chugs the hell out of his guitar and never stops. Jeff Hanneman is so furious with his leads and Kirk Hammet uses taps and almost has a classical sound to his leads, therefore its a draw. Lars Ulrich has developed into a great drummer while Dave Lombardo pounds the drums with such reckless, timed abandon that leaves one breathless. Robert Trujillo has such a distinctive style and has played with numerous other acts that he somewhat dwarfs Tom Araya's abilities which are far better than many contemporaries.

Conclusions? I'd have to say that it is an almost dead even score. Yet, if I'm reaching for the one CD to bang my head to while on my journey to work, I'm probably going to reach for Kill Em All and crank "Whiplash". Thus, Metallica wins by a hair. However, if I want to scare the crap out of a neighbor I'm breaking out "Hell Awaits" or "Raining Blood".

Truly, you can't lose with either band.

National Metal Day!

2011-11-08T22:22:00.001-08:00

This Friday, 11-11-11 is National Metal Day. Wherever you are, whoever you are let it be a day when all Metal fans unite as one to show our devotion to our favorite music. Wear your favorite concert tee, play your Megadeth in your car, Pantera at work and throw the horns throughout the day. Let us be proud and show appreciation to the form of music that will never go away. Naturally, everyday is Metal Day in my world. Horns up!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zc7-6vq4GUQ

Metallica and Lulu

2011-11-06T16:09:00.000-08:00

First off I have to say that with the career that Metallica has had, they can do whatever they want. I've always been a casual fan having heard "Seek and Destroy", Master of Puppets", "For Whom the Bell Tolls" and the Black album.

The perception that Metallica has alienated many longtime fans who still want to hear material that echoes "Battery" and "Hit the Lights" is highly probable. To me a good song is a good song, and "King Nothing", and the covers of "Whiskey in the Jar", "Last Caress" and "So What?" are some of my Metallica favorites. Nonetheless, after nearly 30 years of existence Metallica seemingly prefers to grow and expand their horizons. St. Anger was a disappointment to me. Yet, they had to make that record or else they may have imploded.

Metallica are heavy metal legends and take their artistic license to create a catalogue that is quite diverse. As with Bon Jovi, it appears many long time fans want to hear the same songs rehashed. I applaud any artist who takes risk because after x amount of years, how does a person not grow? God bless Motorhead and AC/DC to sticking to the same formula as it works for them. Metallica is in a league of their own.

That being said I sought out to keep an open mind and listen to Lulu. I had read that Lou Reed does spoken lyrics, yet I gave it an honest listen. I told myself that this is a collaboration infusing what Lou Reed does best along with our metal legends. The album is based around Lulu - two plays originally written by the German playwright Frank Wedekind. This is not a Metallica album! Many of the tracks feature great musical accompaniment while the lyrics tell the story. I do like conceptual albums but this is not my cup of tea. Lou Reed is a legend, his singing isn't my style. "Iced Honey" features some great melodies as does the single "The View". Outside of that, I find the whole CD quite excrutiating to listen to and will not be purchasing it.

Metallica had the fortitude to try something different, yet my opinion of them hasn't changed. I don't consider them sell-outs or has beens. As far as I'm concerned they are free to do whatever they wish as have the freedom to do so. How many of us hold the desire to do so also.

Looking forward, I fully believe they will soon release a quality metal CD noteworthy of my time and money.

Journey, Night Ranger and Foreigner Concert Review...

2011-10-22T19:38:00.000-07:00

It was a great, damp, cool October night in Seattle, that was just right for rocking', 70s and 80s style. I hadn't realized that this was the last date on this tour. If any of these guys were tired, IT DIDN'T SHOW!

Night Ranger did come out a few minutes early as expected, and started the ball rolling with "Lay It On Me" from their latest album, Somewhere In California. This may just be their heaviest tune ever! These guys were so energetic, as they breezed through "When Your Eyes" and "Sing Me Away" all the while not staying in one place too long. When it came time for "Sister Christian", they brought out Deen Castronovo from Journey so drummer Kelly Keagy could properly sing this all-time MTV classic. Nonetheless, the audience sang every note which was a great moment. Throughout the set singer/bassist Jack Blades was the perfect MC for these rock n roll festivities with great audience rapport, funny short stories and comments too keep us pumped. As I'd hoped they did a Damn Yankees song, yet I would've preferred "Coming of Age" to the performed "High Enough". As they ended their all-too-abbreviated set with "You Can Still Rock in America", guitarists Joel Hoekstra and Brad Gillis were trading maniacal licks just as they had been all night. How I wanted 20 more minutes out of one of my favorite 80s bands.

Set List (Out of order)

Lay It On Me
Don't Tell Me You Love
Sister Christian
High Enough
When You Close Your Eyes
Sing Me Away
(You Can Still) Rock In America

Foreigner was a huge surprise for me as I felt they stole the show with a full blazing attack on the audience and only let up for "Waiting For a Girl" and "I Want to Know What Love Is". This incarnation of Foreigner played without any original members as Mick Jones is still out due to illness. So while this may seemed like a tribute band, the audience (including myself) could've cared less. Singer Kelly Hansen sounded great and knows how to work a crowd. The rest of the band was on fire as the ripped through classics such as "Cold As Ice", "Head Games", "Urgent", and "Feels Like the First Time". As they finished up with the blazing "Hot Blooded" I felt thoroughly impressed with what I had seen. These guys may not be household names but they played like legendary rock stars.

Set List (Not in Order)

Feels Like the First Time
Head Games
Double Vision
Urgent
I Want to Know What Love Is
Waiting For a Firl
Hot Blooded
Dirty White Boy
Cold As Ice

Journey hit the state around 9:30 opening with the thundering "Separate Ways" and took off from their. What I noticed early on was that Neal Schon's guitar almost seemed to drown out singer Arnel Pineda at times. I was almost lead to believe that maybe his voice was strained as it was the end of the tour leg. Nonetheless, when he sang "Open Arms" one could tell his soaring tenor was in fine form. He has such a great soaring voice and easily fits into Journey. As they rolled through hits like "Send Her My Love", "Ask the Lonely", "Stone In Love", "Lights", and "Faithfully" it was clear that Deen Castronova is a monster behind the drums. Neal Schon's extended solos to give the band a break are a necessity for longer sets, it made their set somewhat choppy. Many people around me sat with their hands in their laps likewise when they played the excellent "City of Hope and "Resonate" from their latest offering Eclipse. On the other hand Castronova's solo got the crowd going. Jonathan Cain had a nice piano solo himself displaying his prowess. Throughout the night the crowd was into their hits singing every note and word they knew. We do love our Journey. As they left the stage for what seemed to be the end, we all cheered and yelled as we knew their were two songs left as it brought the crowd to its feet. "Any way You Want It" started things back up as the crowd went nuts. When we heard those familiar opening notes from "Don't Stop Believin' it was in overdrive as the crowd sang every word like a moment in rock history was paid. "Don't Stop Believin' in this writer's opinion is one of greatest songs ever recorded as it comes back into the mainstream conscious every few years to remind us all that we can't stop from ever believing.

As they Journey left the stage, paid respect to their hard working crew, I sat back and felt as if I had witnessed the best concert event ever. I left satisfied that I had received my $50 worth of entertainment.

Again, I have to say that Foreigner blew Night Ranger and Journey out of the water and I would gladly pay to see them again, Mick Jones present or not.

Journey Set List (Not In Order)

Seaprate Ways
Faithfully
Send Her My Love
Be Good to Yourself
Wheel In the Sky
Lights
Ask the Lonely
Resonate
City Of Hope
Stone In Love
Only the Young
La Do Da
Any Way You Want It
Long, Touchg, Squeezing
Open Arms
Don't Stop Believin'

It's almost here.................

2011-10-21T00:16:00.000-07:00

In a scant 17 hours is going to be the latest concert adventure; Journey, Night Ranger and Foreigner. While I love Journey and Foreigner are respected legends, I'm blissfully excited about seeing Night Ranger. Thou Alan Fitzgerald and Jeff Watson are no more, it is irrelevant as the heart of the band remains in Brad Gillis, Kelly Keagy and the incomparable Jack Blades. Despite the fact they are openers,Night Ranger is going to be awesome.

I've read in other reviews that they have gone on early, so I'm going to be there early just in case. If they don't then I'll be ready to be rocked and taken back to the greatest decade of rock; the 80's.

Despite numerous line-up changes, and the reality facing music today with failing music labels and lack radio airplay, Night Ranger released their newest effort Somewhere In California back in the spring. This is one of their best efforts as I've been wearing out my cd in the car. Regardless of what they do and don't play, my only expectation is a blistering set that will set the crowd on its ear.

I'll return Saturday from Seattle with a full report and review even if my ears are still ringing.

See you then and keep Rockin' in America!

Welcome......

2011-10-08T00:13:00.000-07:00

This is a fansite dedicated to the music I love; hard rock, heavy metal and rock n' roll. Whether its discussing the latest opus by Journey,and Anthrax or the spirituality in Bon Jovi songs, I will do so with vigor and my own insights. Those likeminded fans are asked to follow my writing pursuits. If you prefer Lady Gaga, Justin Beiber or ABBA I suggest you find another blog with which to dedicate your time to. Peace be with you.