Lock Vostok: Destruction Time Again
Named after a lake in Antarctica; this is what grew out of prog metal band Mayadome. They are Swedish and boy do they do a wonderful line in heavy prog. This is epic stuff without being pretentious like you get with quite a few in the genre. It's clever and deep without being turgid and impenetrable. This is yet another stellar release from Escapi who seem to have a keen eye for talent these days. There is a touch Therion here; without the symphonic layers. And you just got to love a song title like "Jonestown Slumber Party;" they end the whole thing with a song called "Gestalt." Good titles and songs what is there not to like?
NFD: Dead Pool Rising
"Light My Way", the first single from this CD, is a good clue as to what is in store. There may be only nine tracks but each one is quality goth/darkwave goodness. It could be argued that this is the finest release of its type for many a moon. This is probably the best thing from the main players in this band since their days with Fields of the Nephilim. Expect to hear tracks for this CD at your local goth metal club soon. It could be the album to push NFD to the next level. If you like your dark broody goth music then I highly recommend this CD; it's bloody good.
Nice collection of stuff this week, with only one weak point. There is nothing like a bit of heaviness to prepare one for spring.
Got quite a few things on the iPod for next week. As is ever; keep safe and rocking heavy.
Article comments
1 - Chris Beaumont
I'm kinda digging the hed PE disk. Especially compared to their last release, which i did not like at all. Eidolon sounds interesting, although I prefer the Fiedman/Menza era of Megadeth proper. ANd I will be giving Bludgeon a spin soon.
2 - Max
Your Hed pe review was fucking stupid. You didnt even give it a chance. The album is fantastic.....so much going for it. It's very experimental and works extremely well. There is nothing bad about the album, one of the best albums to be released in ages.
3 - Andrew Ian Dodge
Max I gave it more than a chance...and its rubbish. What exactly does it have going for it (besides the few things I mentioned). What exactly is experimental about reggae/ska-tinged rap metal?
4 - Max
There are more styles than you mentioned involved in this album. It has many blended styles and it works......which is more than can be said about most bands around right now. There is some brilliant guitar, bass and drum work here and it has a great feel to it. There is only one song the album that im not to fond of (nova ordus cliterus). Hed have become a largely independant band and have remained truthfull to themselves and the fans. But I ask you of this, explain to me what's wrong with this album? Justify your review, because im not the only one who thinks this album deserves an unbiased review.