This week I actually managed to get to some of my pile of music DVDs and have a gander at what is on offer. They all (except one) come via those clever folks at Metal Mind and are great value each one of them. But before I get into the visual treats let me tell you about some interesting CDs I have listened to of late.
CD reviews
Iced Earth: Overture of the Wicked EP
As you can tell from the name this is an EP from the power metal power-house Iced Earth. It is a bit of a taster, four tracks, to their upcoming CDs expanding thier epic "Something Wicked" trilogy. The two CDs to be released this year and next will take the trilogy to the next level with added twist of having it all sung by Ripper Owens there newish singer. The EP is partly released to preface their guest slot on the Heaven & Hell tour in the UK.
As far as the tracks on here go, its standard high quality Iced Earth fare. If you like the band you will enjoy the tracks on here full of the intensity, passion and talent that you have come to expect from the band. And the EP has the desired affect methinks. I am looking forward to their next release in September.
Ozzy Osbourne: `Black Rain
Ten tracks of Ozzy goodness that are meant to prove that Ozzy ain't just a reality show denizen and still can cut it. Does it work? Well yes to be honest. This is probably the best thing he has released since the classic No More Tears. It seems to contain all the passion and fluidity that has lacked in some of his more recent stuff. Ozzy and Zack are working well within the limitations of Ozzy's voice as it gets older making sure not to stress his vocal cords.
There is not one duff track on here it has to be said. It is pure Ozzy at his finest with no attempts at being current or trendy. The CD opens with two two-fingered salutes to his critics in the form of "Not Going Away" and the first single "I don't wanna stop". In fact, the whole album has a bit of that feeling. There are even a couple of ballads on here, neither of which are dire but the best of which is the heartfelt "Here for You".
Article comments
1 - Chris Beaumont
I gotta get my hands on the Iced Earth EP, been looking forward to it....
Ozzy, another one I need to get ahold off. Tesla... ditto.
I was very impressed with the Andromeda DVD, I read that it was recorded the same night as the NEO and Pendragon disks, they were on tour together.
Right now I am kind of hooked on the new Dream Theater, which is their best in years.
2 - Marty Dodge
I must get that new Dream Theater.