Svartsyn "Destruction of Man" (Sound Riot Recs. 2003) by Skullcrusher/Angela Email Svartsyn @: ornias@hotmail.com Forming many moons ago ('91) in the dark bitter cold land of Sweden as Chalice. '93 brought a new and evil name change-Svartsyn. Joining them in their effort to worship Satan in their dark musical way, came Draugen-ex-Dark Funeral drummer ('96). Between Draugen & Ornias (founder, vox/guitars, & bass) they whip out one raw black metal, fourth full-length album done. Seven songs in total, all fast-paced black metal, I particularly liked trax 3, 5, & 7-'Demons Walking on Earth', 'Devil's Image', & 'Destruction of Man'. May Evil Reign! Recommended for listeners of: Dark Throne

Waco Jesus "Filth" (Morbid Recs. 2003) by Skullcrusher http://www.morbidrecords.de Waco Jesus is back with their latest release 'Filth', now their on Morbid Recs.-might I add it 'tis a bit filthy at least the cover is. Just one question guys-what is with assholes?-this cover has a chick with what looks to me like a close-up of her infected asshole-yuck! Last lp cover-some chick politely shitting on some guy-why do we need to go to these decrepit places in your mind. Anywayz, the musick is sick, lyrically-their not going to win any awards, but the drumming & rhythms speak to the mosher in us all. I do like some of the funny intro's like; "I'm gonna whip ya' silly, & fuck you stupid"-intro to 'Sexual Assault' who can resist? 'Blinded' killz! Recommended for listeners of: Dying Fetus, Fleshgrind, & Lividity.

2Ton Predator "Demon Dealer" (Diehard Music) by Maria A. Gadola If you like metal, real heavy metal, then check out 2Ton Predator. 2ton Predator, a Swedish band, who produces more heavy metal then any other band known. Delivery each song with a short story instead of your everyday rifs. With songs such as "A Funeral Romance" - "It has something to do with how fragile the human mind is" (2Ton Predator comments). It has a story such as "an angel on one shoulder and a devil on the other, one of them has to win each battle." (2Ton Predator comments). And, "Demon Dealer" - A short story based on "a guy's life where everything turned into making fast money" (2Ton Predator comments). It is no wonder why these guys are knocking down your door. For more information please visit www.diehardmusic.com

Heart and Stone "Love IV Rock & Roll" (Indie release) by Maria A. Gadola Heart and Stone formed back in the fall of 1989. During the next 7 years Heart and Stone, night after night, performed as opening acts and headliners to thousands of dedicated fans. With lead vocals, songwriter, and producer Tony Anton, it is know wonder that this band is so unique. Each song is electrifying with fascinating guitar riffs and acoustic sounds such as track #2 "Eyes in Disguise" and track #4 "Alone in Time." They have a mixture of today's alternative rock, 70's rock, classic rock, and a bit of heavy metal. I give this album 4.5 stars. For more information please visit www.heartandstone.com and be sure to sign up for their mailing list.

Divine Empire "Nostradamus" (Olympic/Century 2003) by Skullcrusher/Angela http://www.metalasylum.com/divine This trio packs and invincible punch into the death metal world with their latest release 'Nostradamus'. Duane Timlin's drumming is dynamic & swift. Guitars are energetic, the music is insatiable. "Sacrifice in Vain", "They Rise", "Aggravated Battery", & oh fuck, all the songs rip-ass-this is a must have.

Fleshart "Art Brut" (Grindethic Records 2002 B+) by Skullcrusher http://www.fleshart.cjb.net Brutal death metal four track mcd from these Grecian's. In the realm of Skinless--intros included. "I Fuck You Dead!"-truly a classic. Be on the lookout for their new split cd with Harmony Dies on Obliteration Recs (Japan)- Very intense death metal!

Nachtmystium "Nachtmystium" (Regimental Records 2003) by Skullcrusher/Angela http://www.angelfire.com/fm/nachtmystium/ http://www.regimentalrecords.com Six song mcd, evil, dark, menacing raw black metal. Formed by Azentrius in 2000, various session members have come and gone the current line-up being: Azentrius-guitars/bass/vocals Zmij-vocals (session), Aamonael - guitars, & Xaphar-hammer. Mid-paced raw, "Cold Tormentor (I've Become)" & "Embrace the Red Horizon" shred.

Orcustus "Orcustus" (Demo 2002) by Skullcrusher http://www.orcustus.com Three black metal talez are included on this demo. Founder-Taipan (vocals) recruited some of the best Norwegian black metalers for his group-Infernus - bass (Gorgoroth), Dirge Rep drums (ex-Gehenna, ex-Enslaved), and Tormentor guitars (ex-Gorgoroth, Gaahlskagg). Voracious drumming, wicked guitars, vocals are evil, & shadowy. For a taste of what black metal is & what should be-chek out Orcustus.

Anwyl "Postmortem Apocalypse" (Promo cd-Drakkar Pro. 2003) by Skullcrusher http://go.to/Anwyl/ http://devoted.to/Drakkar This promo cd-includes three bludgeoning black metal tunez. Anwyl seems to have been very busy as of late, they began work on their 2nd lp for Drakkar Pro. this spring, they are looking for a label to release their live recordings on, & they have a deal underway with Agonia Recs. (Pol.) to release their second 7" vinyl EP for late 2003. I have only but a taste of what lies within that of the 'Postmortem Apocalypse' release & it's awesome black metal-I especially liked, 'Ordeal by Corpse'. Keep up the killer work guyz!

WEHRWOLFE "Godless We Stand" (Magick Records) by Chris Forbes Decent death metal in vein of Decide and Immolation at times. Vocals are strong death metal vocals and the songs are fast, powerful aggressive numbers that hit hard and hot often. 11 tracks are found here and this is a pretty damn fine release. Info:jmyers@cleorecs.com

GOLDEN DAWN/Masquerade "Napalm Records" by Chris Forbes This is a combo of black metal and some goth metal thrown in a times. I am not a big fan at all of goth metal, but this was actually really good for what it was. The songs are quality and the band can hammer out some killer riffs and the vocals are strong black metal vocals. For this style I have not heard a better band so far. Info: www.napalmrecords.com

SOUL EMBRACED "Immune" (Solid State) by Chris Forbes Boring generic groove nu metal that sounds like a million other bands. Info: www.solidstaterecords.com

ALLEGIANCE "Hymns Of Blood" (WWIII) by Chris Forbes Pretty crushing death/black metal with tons of fast blistering riffs to make your neck and head spin round and round. Awesome vocals and slaughtering riffing made me smile as this played on. This is not for the weak and it just a prime example of a band that still deliver the goods. Info: www.ww3music.com

PANDEMONIUM "Insomnia" (JCM Records) by Chris Forbes This is melodic death metal that I just could not get into much due to the keyboard parts. They I feel take away so much from the music. The vocals are those At The Gate screams vocals along with some growls of death too. The playing is well, but the keyboards just don't do it for me. If your into this style and don't mind keyboards then check these guys out. Info: www.jcmrecords.com

THE S.O.S. SPLIT/Same (No Face Records) by Chris Forbes Conquest of Steel offer up average death metal that doesn't sound any different from any other gore death metal band. Evanesce offer up a bad live sound of boring metal that is not very far on quality at all. Info: www.nofacerecords.co.uk

HOLY MARTYR "Hatred And Waelust" by Chris Forbes 6 tunes of power metal. The tunes are sort of the Europe flair with the soaring vocals and the chanted vocals played with some speed behind it. If you into stuff like Hammerfall, Blind Guardian and the like then you will like this. I sure did. Info: www.holy-martyr.com

DIMENTANON "Same" (demo) by Chris Forbes This band used to be called The Forgotten a few years back and now they are called Dimentanon. The band play a wicked style of black metal. The songs are fairly fast and the vocals are ultra wicked. The vocals sound like a man on his last dying breaths. The band don't remind me of any one band and I can see this band getting a deal really soon. Info: Cultm@msn.com

Tiger Mountain "Analog Heads Gone French" (Lucky Cat Records) by Maria A. Gadola If you like rock. If you like punk rock and roll, then check out Tiger Mountain. New York city's based band is tearing it up. The band features Tyler Lenane - guitar/vocals, Mike Jackson - guitar/vocals, Dean Rispler - bass, amd Aaron Conte - drums. Tiger Mountain has recently release their debut album called "Analog Heads Gone French" that is a mix of 70's/80's retro rock with a feel good vibe of pure punk riff rock. The album contains 10 songs that will keep you in a feel good mood all day long. Songs such as "Love is Simple" which is pure rock about well of course Love, but with a minor twist of funkingness. Other songs include "Song #3, "Read it & Weep", "$2 time", and much more. "We just wanna play rock and roll without it being pretentious, or forcing it into any one category" - Tyler Lenane comments. This band can crank out some great tunes. For more info please visit www.tigermountain.tv and be sure to sign up for their mailing list to get all the news.

Heart "Alive In Seattle" (Epic/Legacy) by Paul Autry Before we get into the music that's featured on this release, I'd like to include a portion of the press release to explain what makes this album a bit more special. I quote, "Sony Music Entertainment has made the best even better, giving Heart's signature sound a new sheen with its new multi-channel Super Audio CD (SACD) hybrid. The band's two CD collection is among the first to contain this ultimate form of sonic purity, boasting a high definition SACD stereo track, as well as a discreet 5.1 surround sound track. The CD will play on any standard CD player, while audiophiles with an SACD player will have the benefit of the enhanced definition and surround sound tracks." As for the release itself, well, first of all, the band includes Ozzy Osbourne/Alice In Chains bassist Mike Inez, ex Guns 'N' Roses guitarist Gilby Clarke, Lovemongers drummer Ben Smith, Wondermints/Brian Wilson keyboardist Darian Sahanaja and, of course, the first ladies of rock, Ann and Nancy Wilson. On this two disc set, we're treated to a good variety of material from Heart's lengthy career. Disc one gets off to a great start with "Crazy On You." It also features "These Dreams," "Alone" as well as a cover of Led Zepplin's "The Battle Of Evermore" and Elton John's "Mona Lisas And Mad Hatters." You're also treated to a new Heart original, "Sister Wild Rose," which proves that Heart's well is far from running dry. On disc two, the energy level is still high with tracks like "Magic Man," a cover of Led Zepplin's "Black Dog," newer material such as "Heaven" and "Break The Rock," as well as the classic "Barracuda." It doesn't really get any better than this, at least when it comes to Heart. The only thing better than this release would be to see them in concert for yourself, which won't be too hard to do since there's a performance DVD out there as well. Haven't seen it myself. But, if it's anything like what I heard on this release, it should be pretty fantastic. http://www.annandnancy.com

Psykick Girl "The Needle Has Landed" (DeadSun Records) by Maria A. Gadola Meet McKenna Rowe, better known as Psykick Girl. Ms. Rowe created the name Psykick Girl as a stage persona in which represents the creative energy within her. Her explosive energizing lyrics and techno beat sound explore everything from goddesses to big beat rock of today's music as well as tribal. She has an unique exquisite voice of deep passion that is best describe as Annie Lennox. The music is fresh and essential, but the harmonies and melodies along with back-beat bass and drums make her music incredible and very well crafted. With tracks such as "Impression" that starts off with a distinctive synthesize beat and goes into a techno sound of big rock followed by the meaningful lyrics of love and "Goddess" a musical line that is strong, catchy, and electrionica it is no wonder why this "Psykick" Girl will go far. For more information please log on to www.psykickgirl.com and be sure to sign up for her email list.

Lost Horizon "A Flame To The Ground Beneath" (Music For Nations) by Paul Autry Without even trying, I could fill an entire page writing about how good this release is. When speaking of this release, the praise should be endless. But, I won't bore you with a lengthy review because, in all honesty, I really don't need to. You may ask yourself, "Well, why's that?" I'll tell you why...it's because the music, once you hear it of course, will speak to you. When it does, it will speak in volumes. Here's all that I really need to say. A nine song release with a running time that comes close to an hour. Very creative, epic, power metal with a top quality production that gives it more kick. This is music that will speak to you...possibly even on a spiritual level. You can't appreciate the full impact this release will have unless you give it a listen. It's as close to musical perfection as one could possibly ever hope to get. http://www.oncelosthorizon.com

Lamont "Thunderboogie" (Traktor 7 Records) by Melanie Falina Thunderboogie marks the third release for this wild bunch called Lamont. With almost a southern-edged punk feel, Lamont songs are each jammed packed with rough-hewn vocals and lyrics, saucy and gritty guitars, and a solid, aggressive rhythm section. This nine-song disc is a raunchy collection of hard rocking tunes that aren't exactly for those looking for some relaxation music. Highlights of the CD include: "Vegas," "Agent 49," and the title cut, "Thunderboogie." Lamont is made up of Mike Cosgrove on bass, organ, and backing vocals, Todd Bowman on drums, percussion, and back vocals, and Pete Knipfing on guitar and lead vocals. Though Knipfing's vocals are indeed passionate, they are a little tenuous. Thunderboogie offers a good listen as long as you're not looking for each of its songs to sound very diverse from one another. These are good songs to groove to, but offer little in varied sound. Lamont can be found on the web at: http://lamontband.com/

S.T.U.N "Evolution of Energy" (Geffen Records) by Maria A. Gadola The recently released debut album from S.T.U.N "Evolution of Energy" is freshly packed with the sounds of Jane's Addiction, high energy, and fearless punk style rock. Their music is described as being dangerous, aggressive, and versatile. They have been compared to bands such as Jane's Addiction and The Clash. S.T.U.N formed just about three years ago in the Los Angeles area. Since then they did nothing but play for local bars, clubs, parties, record company showcases, and just about anything they can get their hands on. "We played any where we could and every chance we got" comments Bobby Alt (drummer). Be sure to check out S.T.U.N on the Warped Tour 2003 Main Stage this summer. For more information please log on to www.stunmusic.com

Kill 2 This "mass.(down)-sin.(Drone.)" by Paul Autry Okay, not sure what the title of this release is all about. But, the album packs quite a punch. I'd describe their musical style as modern hard rock/metal. While they're not breaking any new ground here, they've managed to create a solid album and, really, that's all that matters. Either you're good at what you do or you're not and, luckily, in this case, Kill 2 This is pretty damn good. There's a lot of potential here. But, I do have one small complaint. When I listen to an album for the first time, I look for a song or two that, from the moment I hear it, it sticks in my head. A stand out track if you will. I didn't really find that here the first time I went through these tunes. Well, maybe track two, "Frame By Frame," kind of does it for me. It's not to say that the album is lacking because, as I said, it's a solid release. But, they need that one song that people remember the instant they hear it. They're gonna be around for a long time, so, I'm sure we'll hear that song sooner or later. But, for now, you've got close to an hour's worth of music to sink your teeth into...eleven songs total...and I'm sure you'll be impressed with it. http://www.kill2this.com

Cage "Darker Than Black" (Fugitive Records) by Jym Harris I bought this band's last album, so I knew what to expect... or so I thought. Cage is getting better and better with every release, the same way ASKA progressed. They have found their identity and polished it up for all to hear. I suppose the closest comparison I could make would be Maiden or Priest, but without all the sing-along choruses. The highlight of the disc was the Spanish sung hidden track "Chupacabra" in which the black metal vocals are not nearly as predominant as the English version. 'Darker Than Black' is a disc for the truest traditionalist headbangers. For more info contact www.fugitiverecords.com.