Song Review-Katie Drives- Ghosts Ft Dear Me

Artwork courtesy of Leandra Bonnet

Singer/Songwriter Katie Drives has returned with a brand-new single 'Ghosts', featuring Poet and musician Dear Me via Initiative Musik. Produced by Ole Kuhlmann, 'Ghosts' tells the story of a person that has been ghosted from the perspective of the person that broke contact.

The track is the first since her debut EP 'Fake Smiles' was released last year. The Berlin-based singer mixes Pop and Rock to create a punk attitude, not experienced since artists like Alanis Morrisette and Avril Lavigne some twenty years ago.

'Ghosts' sees Drives' warm and infectious vocals sing from a personal perspective. Her rich vocals sing over distorted guitars and pop-infused melodies to create an extra addition to the evolution of Katie Drives as a songwriter.

Words by Anselm Anderson

Click the link below to read more about Katie Drives.

MUSIC REVIEW + INTERVIEW: KATIE DRIVES - MANIAC | Rambling Man's Reviews (anselmanderson.blogspot.com)

 

Artist Interview- The Comancheros "We wanted to know what it would sound like if Van Halen did a Waylon Jennings cover album."

  

Hello, could you introduce yourself to the listeners?

Hello! This is Michael. I am the drummer, manager, and one of the songwriters for The Comancheros. 

 What can you tell me about your musical journey to this point?

I started by playing in a punk band with my brother, we did a few death metal bands in our teens, and I started playing country when I was in college. Tanner and I met when I was in graduate school for Greek and Latin. It wasn’t long before I dropped out of grad school to focus on The Comancheros. It’s been full steam ahead ever since! 

 How would you describe your sound?

HEAVY & WESTERN. We wanted to know what it would sound like if Van Halen did a Waylon Jennings cover album. Van Waylon, if you will. 

 What inspired you to get into music?

Personally, I was home-schooled. My parents did not play music, so my brother and I started private music lessons around age 12 and it quickly took over our lives. We were never big into sports and it was the first thing we were really good at. 

 The Comancheros recently released the tongue-in-cheek ‘Happy Birthday to Me’. What can you tell me about the track and the meaning behind it?

Jon wrote that song in about 15 minutes on his birthday during quarantine. Tanner and Jon are roommates, so they were stuck together. Tanner walked by Jon’s room at about 8:30am (Natty lite in hand) and said “happy birthday, you should write a song about a guy who is alone on his birthday. Anyway, I gotta go take a shit.” By the time Tanner was done with his shit, Jon had written: “Happy Birthday to Me.” 

 The band has toured with some notable luminaries such as Whiskey Myers. Blackberry Smoke, The Cadillac Three etc. What can you tell me about that experience?

That has been a blast! Blackberry Smoke has been really generous and always fun dudes. It was great to meet the guys in The Cadillac Three because Kelby played on our album “Too Old to Die Young Now” and Jaren has supported the “Heavy & Western” brand quite a bit. One dude in Whiskey Myers has a sweet Star Wars tattoo. 

 What is a typical The Comancheros show like?

Sheer beer fuelled Dionysian revelry. The Greek festivals would see a week of dancing, drinking, and partying. People were known to be torn limb from limb. They set the bar for partying and that’s what we strive to hit. 

 The band has released two albums, and recorded a cover of the Lynryd Skynryd classic ‘Mississippi Kid’.  What can you tell me about the albums, and the decision to cover this particular track?

Our bass player worked on the idea for “Mississippi Kid” with a previous band that broke up when we scalped him for The Comancheros. He was jamming it one day at practice and we just had to try it! We worked it over quite a bit, but it was his idea to make that a full band, heavy song. 

 I read the band has had a sauce named after them. That is a pretty cool claim to fame. How did that come about?

We used to jam with a guy named Vann. He is known for disappearing every few months and doing god knows what. He’s a veteran, he has worked pipelines, and who knows what else! He randomly moved to Texas and started a hot sauce company. He offered us to do a special blend and we were totally down! We’ve been really happy with it, and everybody seems to love the flavour. 

 Does the band have plans for a new album?

Memphis to Mexico releases on November 25th this year! We are so excited for this album. Richard Young from the Kentucky Headhunters produced it, and it was a fantastic experience. 

 And finally, what is next for The Comancheros?

We’ve got a lot in the pipeline. So much is still uncertain, but 2023 is gonna rule!

Social Media

http://www.thecomancheros.com/

https://www.facebook.com/comancherosband

https://twitter.com/comancherosband

'Happy Birthday to Me'

MUSIC INTERVIEW: SODOM- BASSIST/VOCALIST TOM ANGELRIPPER "Sodom is probably the last true metal band on the planet..."

Photo Credit: Moritz 'Mumpi' Kunter

Hello Tom, Congratulations on Sodom turning 40. How do you feel about that?

Of course, we are very happy with it. It's just a retrospective of the past four decades. Who would have thought that after such a long time we would still be on the scene. Of course, I'm very proud of it, but I'd also like to thank all the ex-musicians and everyone involved. It was a long and hard ride, but we made it,

Sodom will be celebrating turning 40 with a new CD called ‘40 years at War-The Greatest Hell is Sodom’ on October 28th via SPV/Steamhammer records. What can you tell me about the album?

We started recording last year. Before that we had to familiarize ourselves with all the old stuff again. It was like time travel, but awesome. So many memories came back to me. But all the effort was worth it and we are currently considering incorporating one or the other song from the album into the live setlist, which will definitely be very exciting.

What was behind the reasons to re-record all tracks?

Originally, we had planned a live album for our anniversary. But it was not possible to do suitable shows due to Corona. So, we came up with the idea of choosing a title from each album and then re-recording it. Our record company also liked this idea very much and so we went back to the old material. We recorded all the songs in our rehearsal room. We set up a small studio there in recent years. Our drummer Toni is very familiar with the technology and recorded everything. Toni also produced our last studio album.

And what was behind the decision to go for rarities and tracks that you rarely play live?

It was important to us not only to make the popular titles but also songs that are supposedly less well-known or underrated. However, we tried to retain the rawness and brutality of the originals. But of course, recorded more precisely. I think the spirit of the old days is still there.

There is a new single, entitled ‘1982’ that's available on the additional 4-track EP, which accompanies the album. What can you tell me about the song, and why did you put it on the EP instead of the album?

The song is reminiscent of the old days. The text is about our beginnings. It was a revolution. We wanted to be hated. We were against our teachers, trainers and uncomprehending parents. At the time, we wanted to show that we were different and not system-compatible. The music itself is written in a typical 80's style and embodies the spirit of the good old days. The album consists only of songs that we had already written, so to speak as an overview of what we have done in the last 40 years. The new song came later.

The album comes in a box set with a differently-coloured LP and a hardcover book in which you have written the introduction. What can you tell me about this and what fans can expect from the special additions?

I think the whole package in the box is something very special for our fans. We have also enclosed a book in which, among other things, all the original works of art are shown with all the important information. But most important are the statements from our fans, who of course also had to have their say. They write about their experiences with the band, sharing memories and special moments. That was very important to us. In the box we also find a great poster and an original signed autograph card from the band. Of course, we hope that our fans like it. We are very curious whether we were right

What inspired you to create Sodom in 1982?

We were surrounded by smoking chimneys, coalmines and factories. The streets were dirty and blackened with soot. I think that shaped us a lot and had a big influence on our music. The work underground was arduous and life was full of deprivation and suffering. We wanted to escape and found solace and joy among like-minded people. Basically, these are the factors that made us decide to start our own band. The text for 1982 is also about this. We were desperados, we wanted to be hated. It was a constant struggle between us and our parents, teachers and trainers. The more we and our music were despised, the better

Did you think the band would last as long as it has?

Probably not. But as long as we stay healthy and creative, we will continue. But I'm aware that at some point the party will be over. I don't want to die on stage like Lemmy. I'd rather be in bed then. But I'm not thinking about it yet, we still have so many projects in the next few years. It's important to keep adding your own trademarks. Our records all sound different because new musicians kept coming into the band. My inimitable singing and my bass sound always count for us. Our songs have gotten better and better over the years, but you'll immediately recognize that this is about Sodom. We still write our songs together in the rehearsal room. This is the only way every musician can contribute his ideas. This is very important.

Do you have any highlights during the time period with the band?

There were so many highlights in the 40 years. For me personally, the most important moment was when I was able to give up my job as a coalminer to devote myself fully to music. A dream then became a reality. From then on, my life changed. That was in 1989 when Agent Orange was released. It was very successful and I was able to make a living from the music.

Do you see any difference in the music world you entered back then in contrast to today?

Sure, of course. Unfortunately, a lot has changed. Metal has gone commercial. Many of the so-called metal bands are in the grip of the music industry and are being forced to do whatever it takes to become more successful. That was and is different with us. We don't let ourselves be dictated to. We love this music and we only do it for our fans and for ourselves. A lot of people just forget what metal means. in the 80s it was a revolution. Today metal bands can be heard and seen on TV shows and on commercial radio stations. Sodom is probably the last true metal band on the planet...

Sodom is set to celebrate its anniversary with a string of dates in the fall. What can you tell me about the tour, and what fans can expect?

We're touring again in Germany at the end of the year and are already planning for next year. Nothing special for the 40th anniversary is planned. For me, it's just a number, nothing more. We look ahead

And finally, a question I like to ask every musician is, what is next for you?

We are currently writing new songs for the next album, which will probably be out next year. A few more shows are planned for this year.



Thanx and yours truly

TOM

Interview conducted by Anselm Anderson©®

Sodom '40 years at War- The Greatest Hell of Sodom' is out on October 28th via Steamhammer/SPV Records

'1982'

Album Review- Alter Bridge- Pawns and Kings

 

Post-Grunge Veterans Alter Bridge released their seventh studio effort Pawns and Kings last Friday via Napalm Records.

The legendary quartet have continued to grow and evolve as a unit over the past 18 years. They return with ten more tracks based on being the underdog in an unforgiving world. Produced by Longtime collaborator Michael 'Elvis' Baskette, 'Pawns and Kings' sees the band mature beyond their years with a heavier, darker and aggressive new sound.

'This is War' opens the album with Myles Kennedy stretching his vocal range to the limit over thick muscular riffs and harmonic string arrangements. 'Dead Among the Living' sees Kennedy's vocal timbre incorporate towering and an emotive range to tender melodic vocals. Kennedy sings over rolling basslines and dark grooves that is a serious statement of intent from the band.

'Silver Tongue' comes with punishing riffs and an earworm chorus that may be their most infectious to date. The moody 'Sin after Sin' continues before the album takes a more personal and mellow take. 'Stay' gives guitarist Mark Tremonti vocal duties, but I personally feel this is the weakest on the album. It doesn't feel like it fits in with the rest of what it is about. 

 The second half of 'Pawns and Kings' takes the band down traditional Alter Bridge territory with their usual anthemic metal on tracks like 'Holiday' 'Last Man Standing' and 'Season of Promise'.

'Fable Of the Son' is the most intimate on the album. The eight-minute song sees Kennedy in an outpouring of candidness and self-reflection. The progressive elements play to the vocalist's strengths as a singer. And finally, the title track 'Pawns and Kings' is a six-minute track with odd time signatures and haunting melodies that sums up what could be one of Alter Bridge's better albums.

Overall, Alter Bridge return with a new edge that shows they may have found their calling with excellent production values, more riffs, and stronger songwriting.

Words by Anselm Anderson: Rating 8/10®©🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

SOCIAL MEDIA

ALTER BRIDGE online:
WEBSITE
FACEBOOK
TWITTER
INSTAGRAM
NAPALM RECORDS

'Silver Tongue'

'Pawns and Kings'

Album Review- Palps- Black Heart

 

Essex-Based four-piece Palps have released their debut album, entitled Black Heart.  The LP follows the 2020 debut EP 'Letters to You (That I Will Never Send)'. Black Heart is an eight-track concept story that highlights a person's struggles with Mental Health.

The album is accompanied by eight music videos that relay this story to listeners. The story is centred around the main protagonist, Matt plus Rose, Charlotte and the nefarious Plague Doctor, a metaphor for suicidal thoughts.

Jack Twiner helped mix, master and produce this release at Pyramid Studios in Reading, England. The band convey the seriousness of Matt through emotive pop-rock, huge choruses and meaningful lyrics.

The anthemic 'AVA' begins this chapter through striking vocal melodies and distorted guitar riffs. The heart-wrenching 'Love, Always' soon follows, before the first of two duets with vocalist Kirstie McEwan with 'Consequences'.

Each song tells the tale of a troubled and conflicted individual growing darker throughout. The band add some instrumental passages and intricate songwriting that grabs at the softest spots. The LP is story-centred, rather than relying on any flashy musical techniques. That is the important thing to remember when listening to the album. For this reason, the album can at times sound too similar in tone and dynamic, which can come across as especially dark.

'Messages' seeks to sound positive with simple guitar play and joint choral cries and dazzling keys. The melodic 'Imprint' is the second to feature Kirstie McEwan joining in on the chorus. 'In My Head' is the heaviest track on the album with machine-gun drumming as a means to set the alarm something is up. And finally, 'Dead' is an eight-minute finale with progressive elements, aggressive guitars and sombre breakdowns.

Overall, Palps release an interesting way to get a serious subject through to the masses with sweet melodies and dark pop.

Words by Anselm Anderson. Rating 7/10❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

SOCIAL MEDIA

https://www.facebook.com/palpsband

Album Review- Lamb of God- Omens

 

Grammy-nominated Metal titans Lamb of God return with their ninth studio effort Omens, released last Friday, October 7th via Epic Records.

Produced by longtime collaborator Josh Wilbur at Hensen Recording Studios in Los Angeles, the location of such classic albums from Pink Floyd and The Ramones. The band have recorded a documentary of the making of these sessions you can find here.

The ten-track LP is a follow-up to 2020's self-titled #1 hard rock album. The self-christened "Very pissed off record" is a reaction to the social injustices in the world, featuring the typical brash, unapologetic vocal howls of lead singer Randy Blythe, turbo-charged twin guitar attacks and pummeling rhythmic patterns.

The LP begins with the abrasive 'Nevermore', a relentless assault on the ears with double-blast beats, incendiary grooves and Blythe's call to arms. This track is a statement of intent from the start.

Next up is the dark and aggressive 'Vanishing' and the high tempo 'To the Grave' add fire to an inferno, already burning from the band's raw rage and unadulterated sonic power. Randy Blythe, in particular, is a one-man wrecking machine with no remorse for whoever gets in his way. There is plenty of blistering note playing and intricate guitar play from Adler and Morton, but it can run the risk of sounding the same.

Photo courtesy of Travis Shinn

Nonetheless, Lamb of God has plenty in its arsenal to make up for this with headbanging classics such as 'Omens' Greyscale' and 'Ditch'. The band's penchant for a muscular, hard-hitting sound is enough for an avid fan to get their teeth (and fists) into. Other highlights include the finger-splitting solo on 'III Designs', the punishing and moody 'Gomorrah', and the melancholic 'September Song'.

Overall, 'Omens' still carries the same swaggering attitude of a typical Lamb of God release. 

Words by Anselm Anderson Rating: 8/10⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡

 
LAMB OF GOD is:
D. Randall Blythe – Vocals
Mark Morton – Guitar
Willie Adler – Guitar
John Campbell – Bass
Art Cruz – Drums

LAMB OF GOD online:

www.lamb-of-god.com

'Nevermore'

'Ditch'

'Omens'

Album Review - Wednesday 13-Horrifier

Art Work: John Bush

Label: Napalm Records    Release Date: October 7th

Gothic Horror Punk Icon Wednesday 13 returns in time for Halloween with another gorefest. Horrifier will be released on Friday 7th October via Napalm Records.

The musician has carved out a successful career with nine studio albums, including his latest 'Horrifier'. following earlier fame as the lead singer of Murderdolls. The follow-up to 2019's acclaimed 'Necrophaze' is eleven songs of blood-curdling riffs, bone-chilling vocals, and horrifying lyrics to cement Wednesday 13 as one of the leading components of Horror rock in the past twenty years. The singer continues to merge metal with rock 'n' roll, whilst writing horror-film-themed tracks.

The unsettling intro 'Severed' opens up before exploding into 'Insides Out', billed as 'The heaviest record' of Mr 13's career. He sounds like a homicidal maniac over a thick, distorted riff. Next up is the aggressive 'Exhumed and Devour', a deranged tale of the dead.  The song features the distinctive husky vocals of Wednesday 13 over machine-gun style guitar leads. The 'dance-anthem' 'You're So Hideous' is next with the usual facetious sense of humour and a sing-along chorus. Wednesday 13 may have penned his best album to date with each song outdoing the last for macabre tales, earworm tunes, and cutting-edge riffs that will keep listeners tuned in.

Photo Credit: Stephen Jensen at F3 Studios

The latest single 'Good Day for a Bad Guy' is a throwback to the pulsating punk of Murderdolls. The tongue-in-cheek track features the raw energy of the band with pounding drums and groovy rhythms. Other highlights include John Carpenter's Halloween-inspired  'Return to Haddonfield'. the fist-pumping metal of the title track 'Horrifier', the Christine tribute 'Christine: Fury is The Night', a pedal-to-the-metal anthem with a literal guitar-driven pedal effect. And finally, 'The Other Side' is an ode to the singer's late mother, and late bandmate Joey Jordison.

Overall, Wednesday 13 produces enough tricks and treats for diehard fans in time for Hallow's eve.

Words by Anselm Anderson: Rating 9/10 💀💀💀💀💀💀💀💀💀

Social Media

https://www.facebook.com/officialwednesday13/

https://officialwednesday13.com/

https://twitter.com/officialwed13

https://www.instagram.com/mrmotherfucker13/

'Good day To Be a Bad Day'

 

EP Review- Ruina- As the Sky Begins to Break

 Rising British Heavyweights Ruina release their latest EP As the Sky Begins to Break today, Friday, 30th September.

Formed in 2020, Ruina originally started out as a solo project for multi-instrumentalist Harv Lake. However, a desire to play live and explore new ideas lead Lake to assemble his own band. The four-track EP is eleven minutes of skull-crushing riffage and joint harsh/clean vocals courtesy of Harv Lake and Chris Owens. 

The EP begins with the haunting instrumental 'Intro/Exist' before exploding with the latest single 'Ash & Fire', a slice of modern metal that goes straight to the jugular. A hard-hitting track with punishing blast beats and razor-sharp riffs. Owens' towering melodies provide a reassuring accompaniment to Lake's anguished growls.

Next up is the equally dark and emotive 'The Truth', in which Owens and Lake's vocal chemistry continues to grow. The odd time signatures. sonic blast beats and eerie guitar melodies make this one of the more intense tracks on the EP.

Herv Lake has done a good job finding two talented musicians that supplement his strengths as an instrumentalist. The production values enhance each performance and highlight the songwriting here.

In Addition, the fact it is only 11 minutes long makes the EP more enjoyable. It serves as a taster for what is to come from Ruina in the future.

And finally, 'Wavebreaker' reminds everyone there is one more song left. This song focuses more on groove-laden riffs and powerful and emotional melodies that make it more of a commercially assessable song.

Overall, Ruina may have broken more than the clouds above with this short, but evocative new release.

Words by Anselm Anderson. Rating: 8/10★★★★★★★★

Social Media

http://linktr.ee/ruinauk