Seasons Of Me-Transformation

Reigning from Johnson City, TN, Seasons Of Me are one of the hardest working bands I've come across.  With a sound similar to that of nationally known acts like Breaking Benjamin, Red, Chevelle, and Shinedown; you have yet another excellent product to add to the list.  Seasons of Me consists of raw talent as a whole.  With Mr. Dave Shirley on guitar, you'll get nothing but pulse pounding shredding on each riff and threshold you hear Dave rip away at!  Drumming duties are the main meal for the man who is yet another true talent to Seasons Of Me, and that man is Gregory Barrett.  He seems to have this "knack" for being able to throw your emotion into all their tunes, and with the type of ferocity, he is joined as well by the vocalist and another guitarist in the guy they call Camron Scism.  His vocal range is intense, and quite relentless.  The EP they released, from which I had the pleasure of having the change to hear, titled "Transformation", shows the band has a sound just about to a perfection!  Throw in the bass playing of Nic McWilliams, and you have yourself a little treat if you can grab some of their great merchandise from a link below, or happen to be lucky enough to catch them live and pounding the crowd with rock sensations really not heard before!  I really enjoyed the EP, I have some I prefer to play more than others, which every album will have that specific.  Yet, two songs really stand out to me.  I would venture to say if I had a second favorite track, it would have to be the one that goes by the name of "Stand Beside Me".  I think lyrically, that song is unique and has an excellent theme and arrangement within it.  However, in this world of picking favorites, mine would have to be "Death Of Me".  This one leads you into an array of beautiful melody, strong words, and it's almost like you can get lost inside this song in ways that most songs do not pull you in.  The way it drags or pulls you into it, it almost like the way Chevelle's single, "The Red", drew people into it.  It takes a listen or too, and then you are quite simply pulled in, or "hooked".  Overall, this is one hell of a release, and if you are into modern rock, rock in general, or just want to try out something new, this release and band are most definitely up your alley!!  In December the band signed a deal with the agency titled Nickel And Dime, and this will definitely set up some more exposure and some excellent opportunities to come their way, thus coming your way!!

Rating: 5.0/5.0

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Caducus-String Me Up

 

 Her presence is being felt within this music industry, including an interview and photo Louisville Music News website.  Why Louisville, you ask ?   Well, she always had this beautiful talent to sing.  As for her singing, Michala Bouska, the woman being spoken of now, she is incredibly talented.  Her vocals are so much like the angry Fiona Apple, the lustful Maria of In This Moment, the incredible range of Charlotte in the band, Delain, and also Christina of the well known band, Lacuna Coil.  Chuck Stoess, Jr., also known as "Chuckles", also shares the songwriting duties with Michala.  With utter power, incredible arrangement, and a sense of inducing amazing emotion, "Chuckles" seems to lace up the guitar with a sound only heard in true music professionalism.  Chuck writes the bass lines as well as the guitar arrangements for most of Caducus material.  Then, we enter Mr. Steven McDougale , Jr., tearing into the way of "bruising" the drums and giving beats never heard before with a thrust of relentless energy.  He shows true talent in a drummer's world, there is no doubt.  "J" Jason Cheatham, is the main man responsible for the aggressive riffs you hear during their live shows, and on the excellent release of "String Me Up".  Currently, Caducus is searching for a bassist, their search is active and ongoing, with no doubt they will find the raw, strong talent that fits the band.  The album cover to "String Me Up" is very dark, gothic, and intriguing.  It will, in sorts, leave you pondering how dark or relentless this album and band could sound like, before ever hearing the music itself.  The release totals six tracks, with five originals and one cover song.  You will definitely enjoy this gem!  "Evolve And Obey" and "Phoenix", are songs that show how simplistic, brutal, and melodic this band can be.  I have a favorite track from the release, and that song is titled "Safeword".  I truly am indulged with this song, and it is such a strong arrangement of music, it pulls you in like nothing ever felt before.  The song "String Me Up" is dynamic, tough, and really gets you pumped for the relentless atmosphere that Caducus brings with them on stage and on their record.  As soon as possible, I plan to find a way to catch them live, and witness the strong performance I can feel already from the "String Me Up" release.  If you are a fan of artists like the talented Joan Jett, Flyleaf (w/Lacey), Lacuna Coil, Delain, Evanescence, and the former band Drain S.T.H., you will truly dig this release.  Speaking of Flyleaf, Caducus is set to play a slot on the current Snocore tour at the EXPO FIVE, which is located in Louisville, Kentucky.  The show will have performances by Flyleaf, Adelita's Way (who are working on a new album for late 2015), Framing Hanley, Fit For Rivals, Begging Victoria, and the already mentioned brutality called Caducus.  That Snocore show is set for February 17th, 2015.  With the sponsorship and excellent coordination of Mr. Terry Harper, with whom you can contact and see more about at a link below, the promotion of this band is growing rapidly and I promise you the nation and perhaps the world, will soon feel this force known as Caducus!!

Rating: 5.0/5.0

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"String Me Up" Today !!

Le Projet-Quatre

 

"Quatre", is the debut EP from a "supergroup" of musicians.  You will definitely recignize them, and their other musical products as well.  The band, Le Projet, consists of Lenny Cerzosie, who is part of the other supergroup known as The Infinite Staircase.  That band released an album that was directed more toward world affairs, and life's difficulties occurring these days.  Also in Le Projet, you get the talents of Mr. Adam Kury, also known as the backing vocalist and bass player for the California based band, Candlebox.  We all know they kick ass.  Then, we enter Morgan Rose.  Morgan is well known for his presence and drumming in the highly talented and rocking band, Sevendust.  He also worked in the Clint Lowery-led project, Call Me No One.  Finally, the power and very strong force behind Le Projet is the man himself, Kevin Martin.  You will without a doubt, recognize his vocals and screams from his bands such as Kevin Martin and The Hiwatts, The Gracious Few, participation in the band The Infinite Staircase, and more so in the alternative rock band, Candlebox as the lead singer.  "Quatre", which hopefully is just a small taste of what is more to come of this project, is incredible!  You get four tracks, but basically three due to the first song off the EP, "Little Shits", having an alternate version of the song as the final track on the release.  Both versions are explicit, and the vocals are gritty, and Kevin Martin and the guys really did well on "Little Shits".  I was impressed from the very beginning, by accidentally coming across a Youtube video by Le Projet, featuring their song, "Head Down".  The song is track three on the release, clocking in around 4 minutes long, which is about thirty to forty-five seconds shorter than the other three songs on "Quatre".  The song "Save Yourself", has perhaps the best lyrics out of all the tracks on this effort, and it also, to me, shows how diverse this band can be.  You really can't go wrong with purchasing this record.  From all I have personally witnessed, it's only priced at less than four dollars for the entire EP of four songs.  So, basically just about a dollar per song, but I'd grab the entire release, you save a few cents and also get a really solid rock album.  Experience all these band members like you've never heard them perform before.  Well arranged, well written, and well done, period.

Rating:5.0/5.0

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Joel Jorgensen-This Aching Heart (Single)

 

Joel Jorgensen is one hell of a talent folks.  With a determined, and strong work ethic, Joel give his many fans material that is both extremely beautiful and worth every bit of the art that it truly is.  You may know the man from the band known as Angels Fall, who had a smash song called "Drunk Enough" a couple years back.  Don't allow the Angels Fall moniker to fool you, Joel's passion and love for the art of music shows much more brighter and powerful with his upcoming solo EP release.  The debut off that effort is titled "This Aching Heart", and it is an incredible piece of work indeed.  The song is available off his ReverbNation page for free download, of which you may follow the link below to obtain your treasure.  To mention, another strong song of Joel's is titled "Every Day", and you can get a splendid taste of that on the ReverbNation link as well, and you can truly dive deep into what drives Joel Jorgensen with his music, by checking out any of the links below.  "This Aching Heart", clocks in just under five minutes in duration, and it is a magnificent song.  The acoustic guitar is amazing, and the lyrics show depth, creativity, and Joel's true talent.  I really can't say enough about this track to be honest.  I really enjoy it, and I have never had a song on repeat so much before in my life!!  The forthcoming EP that Joel is currently working hard on, I'm sure will be brilliant and a hot commodity once it is unleashed to the fans and the music world as a whole.  Go ahead, check out more on Jorgensen below, and see just how good the guy can be, and what "treasures" you can find within the music itself!!

Rating:5.0/5.0

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Jacquie Lee-Broken Ones

 

This EP, "Broken Ones" is brilliant.  You may recognize Jacquie from the hit television show, The Voice.  She impressed the judges through and through.  Well, here she is with her debut record, "Broken Ones".  This is incredible vocals and work.  The first single off the EP is the title of the release, "Broken Ones".  Below, you will find the official music video for it, and it will give you a female vocalist gift!  It is my favorite track from the effort, and I constantly find myself spinning it and playing it on the I-Pod, and also on mix cd's.  The third song from the EP, titled "Drown Me in Your Love" is irresistible and beautiful.  You will really enjoy this song, hands down.  "Tears Fall" is the darkest song, and it finds itself among the top tracks of the "Broken Ones" EP.  There is a fun, and upbeat song to get into on the album, and of course we all know it, it is called "Girls Just Want To Have Fun".  Fall into a well done song with wide vocal range and haunting piano, in the track "Right Love".  Overall, this release presents a variety of styles within it, and it delivers pretty well.  There could be stronger songs like "Broken Ones", but this being her first release, she has done quite well.  I would give this a try, I mean for the cheap price, and the quality, you really cannot go wrong with "Broken Ones"!

Rating: 4.0/5.0

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Sean Danielsen-Food Chain

Well, it's here, finally.  A solid rock effort that we can all enjoy and learn

to love.  Sean has given us a "gift" and a relentless pursuit of excellent music, indeed.

With his second solo release, "Food Chain", his voice resonates so deeply with the listener and

fan.  You know him from the top-selling band, Smile Empty Soul.  However, you will

get to know him even better with his solo releases, "Enjoy The Process" and "Food Chain'.

The first single from "Food Chain", is the song "Rescue Me", which premiered on the Revolver

Magazine website not too long ago.  Wow, such strong lyrics in this one.  He lets loose, and never

looks back lyrically, and the guitar is so soothing and addicting, it's not funny.  Not one bit.

To me, the most solid track from the EP, is the third song, "Beautiful Things".  "Beautiful Things"

is so, well, beautiful, and reminds me of a classic Smile Empty Soul ballad, and it definitely rocks!

However, don't forget about the incredible tracks "Waves" and "Broken Bones and Skeletons".  This

effort is very, very good.  There is no, and cannot be, an excuse to not give this EP a shot.  You

can pre-order it on I-Tunes now for only $3.99.  You cannot go wrong.  If you are a fan of excellent

acoustic guitar, lyrically-laced tracks that give you chills, or simply great music-this one is for you!

I guarantee you will enjoy all five tracks with pleasure and pure smiles!!  Crank it up, rock out to it, and most of all, know that this music is for you!!  You can relate to this material very well, and I know that with songs like "Food Chain", and more, you will be able to dive into the EP without looking back.  Sean Danielsen, the Smile Empty Soul vocalist, lets loose, and never lets the fan or listener down in this release.  Pick up your copy at his upcoming solo tour, or online at your favorite

digital retailer on November 4th, 2014.  You will love this, period!

Rating: 5.0/5.0

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October Rage-Fallout, Dust and Guns

 

Coming from the proud country of Australia, October Rage have released their latest effort, with

"Fallout, Dust and Guns".  Featuring the well done track of "Valkyrie".  This song is absolutely incredible.  With powerhouse vocals, guitar pounding melodies, and lyrics that are ragingly dark and effortlessly done, it's incredible!  Take for instance the lyrical lines that vocalist Nick Roberts belts out, I mean it's like they know how to rock out more than the normal "joe".  With the pulse raving drums of Kai Chambers, we are again left with little doubt that October Rage can survive in this crazy music world.  "Fallout, Dust and Guns" includes my favorite song of the EP, within the range of "White Walkers".  I mean, this one soars above most active rock songs these days!  Such a strong, melodic range of powerful influence, and a rocking sound, it's a track surely not to be missed.  "End Of Days" is dark is a triumph over most tracks released out there.  This song engulfs the "rain in life" that we deal with, and still shines with some kind of ray of hope, in which we all try and find in this world.  What a powerful track, indeed!  Another stand out effort is the song, "Signal Fire".  The guitars in this one are beautifully crafted, and the vocals are well layed out, with harmonies being so blissful.  To show they have a depth to them, October Rage include the arrangement and track of "Heart Of Stone".  Perhaps the "slower" track of the EP, this song is a rock ballad in the making, and a force to be heard!  I mean, I tried to find a weakness within this release, but it was tough nonetheless.  I suppose if there was a weakness, it was that there were not enough songs on the effort.  We need more!  Other than that, I am not sure where to leave you, but I suggest you go out, or online, and grab a copy of "Fallout, Dust and Guns" now!

Rating: 4.75/5.0

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Leah Turner-Leah Turner EP

                                     Leah Turner has released her first, self-titled EP, and it is very impressive, indeed!  We all have heard about the power-driven "keys" to her first single, "Take The Keys".  I will be honest and let the readers know that this review is solely based upon a personal purchase.  At no point did the record label, Columbia Nashville, present me with this record.  However, Leah is a rising star, a friend, and I feel she deserves the respect and critiques she can garner.  "Pull Me Back", her second and current single, is a bit different than "Take The Keys".  It reminds me of a Carrie Underwood-type track, and yet, has it's own uniqueness.  It has a catchy chorus, with "you say what you say, but I still want you....pull me back".  That rings in your ears, even after hearing it just once.  Just incredible.  The third track is a bit more fiesty, and down to earth.  "Bless My Heart", is similar to nothing else.  Although, it can have the fire power of a Blake Shelton, Jason Aldean, or a Brantley Gilbert kind of written song.  It has lyrics like "tobasco in my veins....", and shows an angst of Leah, that perhaps the EP through the first two tracks had yet to show.  I enjoy this track the most, and it is my favorite of the five off the release.  "Beat Up Bronco", well, is a lower song.  It has a story behind it, and it still steers this EP very well.  The song fits in great, and when she states, "I wouldn't trade that first kiss for nothin' ", it makes the mood set in quite well.  "Ya, that heater, it's been broken since you owned it....", lyrics that a remindful of tough times and life throwing people hardships, yet we overcome them, and this can be a very resonating song.  The final song off the well-done EP, is called "My Finger".  This one, well it really gets me amped up when I am listening to a country mix, or this particular EP release.  It has an excellent beat and tempo, and with lyrics like "you won't see me dressed in white, won't be no way tonight....", and "you dug your grave and here's my finger".  This song has one specific stating, "show me your history and I'm your regret", well, rest assured, grabbing up this release, this strong and wild EP, will not leave you with the taste of regret in your mouth.  Leah Turner is here folks, and the bottom line is, you have no choice but to recognize this female talent, without a shadow of a doubt!
        
                                                                                    Rating:5.0/5.0

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Cole Childers-Aurora EP

 

Former front man of the band Chasing Corona, Cole Childers has set out on his own, with the solo effort titled "Aurora".  The lead single, "Fall With Me", has hit radio all over the place, and rightfully so.  I absolutely love this song, thus it is why it is my favorite track from this EP.  However, there is more to this release than just that.  Hailing from Washington, Cole grew up with the explosive Seattle music scene in the late 80's and early 90's.  That was a lot of influence for anyone in the world, let alone residing quite near there.  Cole Childers has become so crafty with his guitar playing skills, and his lyrical power, that I can without a single doubt state that this record is definitely worth purchasing right away!  "Addict" and the excellent product that is  titled "Save Me" are strong pieces to the puzzle that is formed incredibly called, "Aurora".  I cannot even announce a weak part of the EP.  This is such good material, no one can deny it.  "Aurora", the last song on the EP, is so smooth and laced with lyrical strength, that you fall in deep into it.  Fitting nicely right in the middle of the effort are the relentless crafts of "Run Away" and "Impossible".  I mean, you can't seem to go wrong with this one, there's no doubt.  I suggest you check out his links below, to judge for yourself.  Enjoy this wonderful and talented artist, who also served our country in the armed forces, so that's even better!

Rating: 4.75/5.0

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 You'll Love What You Hear...!

The Charm The Fury-A Shade Of My Former Self

 

Brutal, metal, fury, and female vocals equal brilliance, period.  That's what you get here in this September 17th release, A SHADE OF MY FORMER SELF.  The album is definitely an "in your face" and "kick down the f*cking door" power lighter!  The front woman, singer Caroline Westendorp, brings the metal to the forefront, and she never let's us go, never lets the screaming stop tearing away at our skies, and I must admit, I'm lovin' it!!  With their firist video and single, "Virtue of Leadership" (which is also my favorite cut off the record), Caroline and the band let loose, and show the world just why the belong.  There are some, and just some light moments on this album though, and that's the great thing about it.  "In The Wake of Pride", you get a haunting instrumental arrangement that seems to flow well along the album, making this just not a "filler" of sorts, but a complete journey as well.  Of course the instrumental leads into the hard hitting screamer titled, "Living Saints".  "Living Saints", to me, is one their best tracks on the album lyrically, and it also is quite catchy, as it flows very well.  The male backing vocals, and Caroline's rage set this song on fire, and makes the listener want to flat out mosh!  "A New State of Mind", "A Shade of My Former Self", and the raging "Deliverance" are all excellent examples of just what this album is truly about.  If you want to burn some calories, jump around, break out this album come mid-September and you will know just why people will have been talking about the band known as The Charm The Fury.  A SHADE OF MY FORMER SELF hits retailers Tuesday, September 17th, 2013 !

RATING: 8.75/10

 

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BearTooth-SICK

 

Red Bull Records has picked a winner here, there is no doubt!  Beartooth is an electric band, from

the midst of Ohio, and screaming from the chords of former Attack Attack! screamer, Caleb Shomo.  This is one of hardest working, road working bands out there, they are touring nonstop, have been before getting signed, and even released this EP, titled SICK, for free (sign up required) on their website.  The songs, all four, are brutal, fierce, and ferocious.  It all kicks off with their first single, also available on I Tunes, titled "I Have A Problem".  The video, which was shot at a live show in Columbus, Ohio, is classic.  Ripping ceiling fans off, throwing items, crowd surfing, and shredding the crowd is a concert to remember, but a typical one if you are a Caleb Shomo or Beartooth fan.  "I Have A Problem" showcases the vocal range of the band, and the lyrics definitely describe life's struggles, it's ups and downs, and the drives one must have to admit the truths needed to become what's needed to be who you are needed to be, even if you indeed, "have a problem".  Following that up is the pulse pounder, "Go Be the Voice".  Whether you question God, religions, or your faith in general, this is just for you.  All I can say for this track is that it rocks, it makes you want to jump, jump, and pound the floor some more, and more!  My friends, that's what Beartooth is all about, bone crushing music!!  "Pick Your Poison", the third track of the EP, is the lightest one of the effort, and screams less, it has more of a melody to it, and is my second favorite off of the EP.  However, to name my favorite track, I have to go with the final track on the release, that track being called, "Set Me On Fire".  The very start, with the echo of "1-2-3-4....", and the anger you feel, the intensity, the rage that builds....it's a real thrill to hear.  If you can resonate with this track, even some of the lyrics, this one's a hit for you, for sure.  Nonetheless, supporting this band is a no brainer if you are a fan of Caleb, or a new fan, or even a fan of metal, rock, or post hardcore music.  Try this band on for size, they definitely will catch your ass off guard, surprise you for sure!  #FearTheTooth wasn't a gimmick, it was real, and now it's time to deal with it....catch this band live, virtually everywhere......check out a link below for more!!

RATING: 10/10

 

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The Wil Martin Project-Outlier: Volume One

 

Mark your calendars for this release.  May 7th, Earshot vocalist, Wil Martin, is set

to unleash an EP of acoustic tracks that are worth everything you spend on them.  "Every song I write is a story of a personal journey or expression, documented in song", Wil states.  This being said, makes each of these beautifully composed tracks so brilliant.  "True Friends", which kicks off the EP, is masterful.  This song brings us into a world of colors, storms, and a world that takes us into natures that break each of us into pieces that are weak and strong.  My favorite line in the song has got to be "..and all the bullshit people talk about-it seems to never end...".  I completely agree.  Wil seems to be defiant to change who he is, for that he has always gained my respect.  The acoustic guitar on the track is excellent, and shows another crafty side to the Earshot front man.  Track number two may sound familiar, because it was put up on his Reverbnation page awhile back, though in early form.  The song is titled, "Hard To Say".  The haunting chants in the background aren't immune to the powerful tone of Wil's melodic and familiar Earshot tones throughout.  People, now please do not mistake the two.  This is not another Earshot record.  Earshot is more electronic, rock, and heavier music.  The Wil Martin Project, is an "acoustic masterpiece" on Earshot's wall.  Both, though, classified as brilliant.  "These Lies" follows us along the EP, and instantly reminds me of a"hit"!  I loved this tune, the moment I heard it.  It is my favorite off the entire release, no doubt.  I love the tone he take with the hook in the tune, when he says "...but these are the lies.....".  This is a talented, excuse me, one hell of a talented musician.  Period.  Remember, this review site does not hold back, I tell it point blank!  I have honestly been eagerly looking forward to this review for months.  I am, yet still, pleasantly surprised on how well this EP turned out.  "These Lies" is so great.  Track four, which you'll come to learn to be "Already Know", is a straight laced, acoustic ballad.  With guitar plucking, vocals tearing through melodies, and Wil's words embracing our souls-this track is an essence of the EP.  In a sense, it is a simply put, great track, no other way to put it.  Now, with "Call on Me", being next up, refer back to an earlier review we did.  This song got an eleven out of ten rating.  I could sum it all up like that, end it there.  However, lyrically, this is my favorite song overall, period, I still stand by it's rating, bottom line.  Yet, as for the EP as a whole, I stick with my gut and ears, and my favorite track will remain "These Lies".  "Fades Away", concludes the effort, and it does so boldly.  "The sky feels like it's falling, and so do I.....again...", lyrically written well, and the harmonicas sounding in the background turn the song into a blissful end to volume one of one excellent EP.  On May 7th, follow a link below, and grab a copy of this EP, do yourself justice, one hell of a favor, it's the best music release on that date, so do it!!  I'm telling ya', it's brilliant!!

RATING: 10+/10

 

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Mud River-Mud River EP

 

Mud River has been up, down, left, and right.  They have experienced all the rides that

the music world can give you, and they are still standing.  That should tell you a lot about their passion and desire for their music.  They've gone through a line up change or so, but have no doubt, their fans are still there, and their sound is immaculate.  They have such dedicated fans, and are lyrically, and vocally strong.  It wasn't until current vocalist Dave Cornejo took to the mic that the power was heard, the rhythm was felt, and the "river" of this band's presence began to flow.  On their latest EP, simply put as "The Muddy EP", the five songs flow and rock as well as any music out there, if not better at times!  "Never Letting Go", a single that is my favorite track from the EP, seems to resonate well within me.  I enjoy the lyrics and the fire that burns within the song.  I feel, as a true fan of music, especially pure rock, one would latch on with this track, and soulfully glide into bliss with this track, note by note.  Another strong effort from the EP, is the song "Inside Your Memory".  This reminds me of a cross between Jackyl, Alter Bridge, and Soundgarden.  So, if you could blend the three, there you go!!  Let me just say this, this EP, well, it does not disappoint at all.  Not one bit.  "King", ends the EP, gracefully, and melodically reels you in.  It has a great beat throughout, and does an excellent job of leaving us wanting more of this band, some of us may know little about, for now.  Mud River is not going anywhere away from us people, so get used to that.  This band is here to stay, and like it's been said, "if you're not down with that, I've got two words for you...." BUY IT!!

RATING: 10/10

 

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Upon Wings-Afterlife EP

 

Have you heard of Nightwish, or Tarja, or even Delain, or perhaps Shamrain?  Forget

about all of them.  Upon Wings has a vocalist that flies clouds and heavens above all operatic echoes any opera-rock, female fronted band could muster up.  Lead singer, Anne Autumn Erickson, is the force behind it all, and has a beautiful personality to give the fans with it.  A brilliant combination to bless all of us with, and it is heard with amazing results in this EP, AFTERLIFE.  The biggest smash hit off the effort, is the title track, "Afterlife".  This song soars high, rocks with high potential to rock out, I could place this on repeat all night......it's like Sarah McLachlan went straight operatic rock and roll on us all!!  Love it!!  This is my favorite track off the EP, and I feel so lucky to have come into contact with the band.  "You Are My Weapon" and "Take Away" remind me a lot of the gothic band, We Are The Fallen.  This is a good thing in my book.  We need more of this excellent music in the industry these days, like promptly.  To end, I'd like to say if you're an Amy Lee fan, you will enjoy the other song off the EP, as it is known as "The Dream".  The song is a soft, melancholy, of gothic and operatic heartbreak, yet there is somehow hope and chance still felt throughout this track.  Overall, I will admit, when Anne first sent me the email, I thought this would be just average music, but I was proven way wrong.  I love this.  I want a physical copy, like right now...add this machine to my collection of hits!!  Upon Wings will not need an "afterlife" because with this music, they'll live on forever.  However, it will be the beauty and strength of THE "Afterlife" song, that launches Anne and the band into an entire new orbit!!  To add more credit, the EP features production and guest vocals from Brett Hestla (Ex-Creed, Ex-Virgos Merlot, Dark New Day).  The record also features mastering by Grammy Nominated mixing engineer Glenn Brown (Kid Rock's recording engineer) and guitar work, production from Canadian-based Kevin Jardine.  Enjoy them from the links below, and get a taste of the true talent that's about to hit the scene hard with an "afterlife"!!

RATING:9.5/10

 

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                                           Upon Wings-"Afterlife (feat. Brett Hestla)"

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Varna-This Time, It's Personal

Female fronted rock/pop group, Varna, seems to have unleashed to us a hit, with their

single, "Down".  The song hits hard, has melodic grooves, and is quite the catch.  It made me want to purchase this three track EP right away, Tiana's vocals are incredible!!  Tiana Woods, the female singer of the band, seems to have found a way to entertain music lovers with passion, desire, and a will to draw fans in like crazy.  Ahh, the insanity!  Lyrically, "Down", is the strongest track in my opinion as well off the EP.  Granted, I only had to pick out of three, but the three have made me so, so thirsty and hungry for more and more from this astounding band.  Lines such as "....I'm going down, going down, don't know how much further I can go....", show depth in this band.  I simply love this ep, and below I have placed links for you to check out the band, and also pick up this EP.  I highly suggest you grab a copy as soon as you can, "This Time It's Personal" is here to grow on us, feed on us, and become a "secret smash hit" that will one day, become a force to be reckoned with, know the name, Varna.  They are here to stay.

RATING: 10/10

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Ghost Of April-Clarity

 

CLARITY, the second release from Virginia's Ghost of April, shows great maturation

and excellent growth in talent.  I thought their first EP release, REBIRTH, was great, but CLARITY has taken it to a whole other level.  The music is stronger both lyrically, and melodically.  The talent has become more evident in the strength of the vocalist, Amar Okanovic.  I also, would like to give credit to the rest of the band, of course this is a team effort, and this band is so good together, you have got to, I've warned you, you have to give them at least a listen today!!  There is Ian Gardea, who does the recording, electronics, and performs lead guitar for the band, then you have Tyler Levy ripping the air on bass, and pounding us into the ground on drums is the talented and relentless Joshua Ray.  This EP, was released in 2011, and is available at most digital outlets of your choice.  I recommend you head to one right after you click a link below to hear the sounds of great tunes!!  My second favorite track off this EP is titled, "The Extremist".  The way they blend the vocals with the background music is incredible!!  I think Amar's harmonies are in excellent range, and lyrically this tracks goes up and down, and this track is super-catchy!!  It is a rocker for sure, and very addicting, then you get some fucking kick-ass screams in there as well, awesome, awesome!  My favorite song on this EP, or in my opinion nonetheless, is the beautifully tragic "The Further".  I love the way this track flows, just like a mellow river, a calm fire, or a blackening rose.  This song is excellent with the piano/keyboard sounds in the background, of course I am a sucker for that sound...lol.  I highly suggest you pick this EP up, I can pretty much guarantee you will enjoy these sounds, and rock your ass off!!  Enjoy Ghost of April, and watch for their new release coming soon in 2013!!

RATING: 10/10

 

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