Gothic - Demons ~ Album review

After a long hiatus, Metalitty returns with an incredible album from Romania!

Formed in 1992, GOTHIC stands as one of the oldest metal bands in Romania. Their music blends elements of gothic and melodic death metal. Honestly, I had never heard of them until they dropped their latest album, "Demons"! This band is seriously underrated!

Gothic underwent name changes to Ali (e) n and then to Innerfire in 2003 when Alin Petruț relocated the band to Belgium. However, when Alin was deported back to Romania in 2005, he reformed the band, which separated from Innerfire, which remains active to this day.

After releasing two full-length albums, "Touch of Eternity" (1997) and "Expect the Worst" (2013), the band is back with their latest release, "Demons," as mentioned earlier.

The album takes listeners on a journey through various styles. The melodic riffs, fast beats, and intense growls in the opening track, "Shadow Man," reveal that Gothic is not purely gothic; I would consider this song more death metal. The album also contains hints of doom metal, power metal, as heard in "Destroying the Masses," and even a symphonic metal touch, particularly in "Demons," one of my favorites from the album! Each song is a distinct journey! George's vocals are outstanding, giving Gothic a unique edge! I also appreciate how Alin Petruț and Taly are able to play different styles while staying true to the band's core sound. Vlad Golgotiu's drumming makes the album powerful, strong, and ALIVE! All these elements make "Demons" a masterpiece! Even the artwork is fantastic, and the surprise: IT WAS MADE BY THEIR BASS PLAYER! Yeah! How great is that?

Overall, the album is fantastic! If you haven't listened to it yet or haven't heard of this band before, now is the perfect time! And if you enjoy it, please consider purchasing it here: http://shop.loudragemusic.com/gothic-demons

Metallica- "Hardwired... to self-destruct" Album review

Today is the day that many people have been eagerly anticipating, some for months, others perhaps for years! Ladies and gentlemen, today marks the official release date of Metallica's tenth full-length album, "Hardwired... to Self-Destruct."

Following the release of the first single, "Hardwired," on August 18, many minds were left in awe! People were particularly impressed by the nostalgic elements reminiscent of "old Metallica," if I may use that term. There is a distinct presence of the band's original writing style, delivering a heavy and powerful track that embodies the essence of what a "Metallica" song should be.

However, true enthusiasts knew to reserve their final judgment until they had experienced the album in its entirety.

With the subsequent release of two other singles, "Moth Into Flame" on September 26 and "Atlas, Rise!" just before the album's full release, I found myself thinking, "This is going to be a masterpiece," and indeed, Metallica did not disappoint!

The album is presented as a double album, with all three singles featured on the first disc, which is characterized by its heavier and more robust sound. The tracks are filled with powerful riffs and drum beats, and James did a commendable job, showcasing some different singing styles in certain tracks.

The second disc, which is longer in duration, takes on a more progressive tone. It incorporates melodic and atmospheric elements, featuring some truly epic riffs and solos, especially in the track "Confusion." Personally, I was captivated by the solo in this particular song.

Just before the closing song, "Spit Out the Bone," which is arguably the heaviest track on the album, the band pays tribute to the late Lemmy Kilmister with the song "Murder One," another standout track in my opinion.

Despite its 70-minute runtime, I initially had concerns that the album might become "boring." However, this was far from the truth! Each song takes the listener on a unique journey, making for a truly exceptional listening experience.

As their diehard fans like to say, "Welcome back, masters" ;)

Hideous Divinity - Cobra Verde ~ Album review

The Italian Metal scene has always been a mystery to me; it didn't seem to go through the typical stages of development before becoming so strong. Italian Metal bands, especially the technical ones, suddenly made their appearance in the early 2000s and brought a unique touch to Metal. Initiative and creativity are two characteristics you'll always find in Italian bands, just like Hideous Divinity, who emerged in 2007 with their demo "Sinful Star Necrolatry" in Norway, even though all the members are Italian.

Later in 2012, after returning home, they released their first full-length album "Obeisance Rising," marking their name among the great Italian bands.

In 2014, the band made another significant step by releasing their second album "Cobra Verde."

This album is so complex in its composition and writing. It opens with "In My Land I Was A Snake," the longest track on the album and, in my opinion, the best! It starts with an epic intro, followed by some fantastic riffs in the middle, and a kickass outro! Immediately after that, the technical side of Hideous Divinity starts showing up. The whole band has done some excellent work; the riffs, solos, and breakdowns are just stunning. Both Enrico and Antonio did a great job! Giulio's drumming added an amazing touch to the mix—fast and so technical! I also loved the bass lines! Stefano is such a talented guy indeed! And what I loved even more are the vocals! Enrico H's growls and grunts make you feel the song. Speaking of vocals, I'd also like to mention that the track "The Alonest of the Alone" features Dallas Toler-Wade from Nile! This collaboration added a great touch to the song!! Loved this one as well!

What more can I say? I strongly recommend this album to technical death metal lovers! If you haven't listened to it yet, do it now!

                                           Rating : 9/10

Contrarian - Predestined ~ EP review

Have you ever wondered what kind of music a Progressive Avant-Garde Death Metal project with the mighty George Kollias on drums could produce? What if I told you that it actually exists, and it's called "Contrarian"?

The project was created by Jim Tasikas (Delirium Endeavor) and Brian Mason (Sulaco, BML) on guitars, Ed Paulsen (Delirium Endeavor) on bass, and Ryan Michael (Gutted Alive) on vocals. As I mentioned before, the drums on the EP were recorded by George Kollias (Nile), and the solos were done by Leon Macey (Mithras).

"Predestined" is the title of their debut EP, released in March 2014. It consists of three songs, starting with "Predestined," a track that "progresses" as the guitar lines merge with the tempo, creating an atmospheric vibe.

Next is "Libertarian Manifesto," the shortest yet most atmospheric track. What attracted me most in this track is the awesome bass line, which suddenly disrupts the cleanliness of the guitar.

The end of "Predestined" couldn't be more perfect; "Diogenes at Delphi" is indeed the perfect track to close such an album. The melodies, the bass lines, and the drums all contribute to making a "peaceful" and awesome outro that blows the mind away!

Contrarian is one of those bands that were able to add a unique touch to their prog death metal without ruining it! Everything about this EP is philosophical—the lyrics, the music... even the artwork.

If you're a fan of Avant-Garde Progressive Death Metal, DO NOT MISS IT! Check it out!

                                      Rating :9/10

Beyond creation - Earthborn evolution ~ Album review

Before I start talking about this album, I would like to mention that Canada has some serious progressive and technical death metal bands! They have been appearing more and more lately, and every time I listen to one of these bands, IT BLOWS MY MIND!

Beyond Creation has always been one of those rare bands we come across! (If you're a prog/tech fan and you don't know the band, then what are you doing with your life? Seriously!) Since their first appearance, the band hasn't ceased blowing our minds.

Beyond Creation is known for being very unique and meticulous in what they do. They pay attention to every detail in their compositions, which wouldn't be possible if they weren't all incredibly skilled! I mean, EVERY MEMBER OF THE BAND IS TALENTED... really talented, which is also rare! This was clearly evident in their successful debut album "The Aura" released in 2011. The band kept that complex technical aspect and added more progressive elements to create a new masterpiece, "Earthborn Evolution."

From what I counted, I listened to the album over 10 times (and yes, I'll be listening to it more) because it's indeed an album that will never make you feel bored. It's simply addictive.

The more I listen to it, the more I discover awesome details in those complex technical lines! Simon and Kevin did a great job with the riffs, which are incredible, while the vocals are so catchy... strong deep growls. And hell! What a devastating performance by Philippe on drums, knowing that this is his first album with the band.

You can't talk about Beyond Creation without mentioning the bass hero, Dominic "Forest." I have to stand in recognition of that man! His bass lines are very unique and creative (you've got to check out "Elusive Psychological Reverence" to see what I'm talking about)! With his fretless 6-string bass, he reminds me of many great bass players, especially considering the current lack of creativity (particularly in terms of bass), but FOREST IS A MASTER, as are the rest of the band members.

In general, the album is a piece of art. If I had to write about each song, I'd write a novel! You tech/prog fans must check out this album, and believe me, IF CHUCK SCHULDINER WERE STILL ALIVE, HE'D BE PROUD OF THESE GUYS! This album should be one of the best releases of 2014.

(Vote for the album here : www.metalitty.tk )

                                  Rating : 9,5/10

Martin Le Gall - Pop redemption~ Film review

Can't decide between a metal movie and a comedy? Why not both?

Unlike any metal movie you know, "Pop Redemption" is a comedy masterpiece about Dead MaKabés, a black metal band that seems destined to end before it truly begins.

After 15 years without any significant achievements, three band members are considering leaving for family reasons, while the fourth is steadfastly determined to keep going. Alex, the band's vocalist, who takes everything too seriously, receives a call from Hellfest—one of the biggest extreme music festivals in Europe—to replace a canceled band. Alex, JP, Pascal, and Erik seize this opportunity, and that's where the adventure begins.

One small mistake on their road to Hellfest changes everything. They go from festival guests to being accused of murder! Forced to hide in a small village, they discover a strawberry festival taking place. Their only escape? To replace the pop band "All We Need Is Love," despite Alex's deep hatred for pop music.

After Alex refuses to play pop on stage and storms off, his bandmates are arrested. Fortunately, the officer's daughter, who happens to be a metalhead, helps them escape with her mother's assistance. They manage to get to Hellfest and finally perform. What about disbanding? They completely forget about it, deciding instead to learn from their mistakes and continue as a band.

Overall, the movie is thoroughly enjoyable! Not a single scene feels boring or skippable. The comedy is strong, though Alex's situation has a dramatic side if viewed from another angle. I think there's nothing more to say except: IT IS A MUST WATCH!

Director:

Martin Le Gall

Screenwriter:

Mark Eacersall

Martin Le Gall

Cast:

Julien Doré : Alex

Jonathan Cohen : Pascal

Grégory Gadebois : JP

Yacine Belhousse : Erik

Audrey Fleurot : Martine Georges

Alexandre Astier : le chef de la SR

Délia Espinat-Dief : Julia Georges

Christophe Kourotchkine : le commandant Riquenbaquet

Magali Miniac : Michèle

Arsène Mosca : le patron du Star club

Frédéric Boismoreau : gendarme de la SR

Fiona Chauvin : l'organisatrice du Hellfest

Jim Rowe : Dozzy Cooper

                                     Rating : 9/10